Used to intensify an adjective or adverb and means "very" or "to an exceptionally high degree." It is often used in formal or elevated language.
example
Die Resonanz auf die Veranstaltung war überaus positiv.
The response to the event was extremely positive.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'über' (over/beyond) and 'aus' (out). The combination expresses an intensification that goes beyond the normal degree and therefore means 'to an exceptionally high degree.'
EXAMPLE
Das Konzert war ein überaus großer Erfolg.
The concert was an extremely great success.
Word order
'Überaus' (extremely) is an adverb and always stands directly before the adjective or adverb it is meant to intensify. It cannot stand alone at the end of a sentence.
EXAMPLE
Wir fanden seinen Vortrag überaus interessant.
We found his lecture extremely interesting.
Elevated style
'Überaus' (extremely) belongs to formal or elevated language. It is found more often in written texts, speeches, or formal conversations.
EXAMPLE
Die Chefin war mit den Ergebnissen überaus zufrieden.
The boss was extremely satisfied with the results.
Compare with
near_synonym
überaus vs sehr
very
'sehr' and 'überaus' both intensify an adjective or adverb. 'sehr' is the normal everyday word and fits almost any situation. 'überaus' also means 'very', but sounds more formal or elevated. You are more likely to find it in written texts, reviews, or official situations. In conversation, 'sehr' is usually more natural, while 'überaus' sounds a bit more emphatic and elegant.
überaus
Die Antwort des Kunden war überaus freundlich.
The customer's reply was extremely friendly.
sehr
Die Küche ist heute sehr sauber, weil wir Besuch bekommen.
The kitchen is very clean today because we are having visitors.