01
unbequem
uncomfortable
Physically not comfortable; causing a feeling of discomfort.
example
Dieser Stuhl ist sehr unbequem, ich kann nicht lange darauf sitzen.
This chair is very uncomfortable; I can't sit on it for long.
unbequem
uncomfortable
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Unbequem' (uncomfortable) is the direct opposite of 'bequem' (comfortable). The prefix 'un-' is often used in German to express a negation or the opposite of an adjective or noun.
EXAMPLE
Nach der langen Reise fühlte sich jedes Bett unbequem an.
After the long journey, every bed felt uncomfortable.
Context clue
You can recognize the exact meaning of 'unbequem' (uncomfortable / inconvenient) from the noun it describes. If it refers to an object, it is about comfort. If it refers to a situation or question, it means unpleasant or sensitive.
EXAMPLE
Die neuen Schuhe sind leider sehr unbequem.
Unfortunately, the new shoes are very uncomfortable.
Use with 'für'
To express for whom something is 'unbequem' (uncomfortable / inconvenient), the preposition 'für' (for) is used with the accusative. This construction is common in all meanings of the word.
EXAMPLE
Diese Lösung ist für alle Beteiligten unbequem.
This solution is inconvenient for everyone involved.
Typical collocations
In the physical sense, 'unbequem' (uncomfortable) is often connected with furniture, clothing, or a particular posture. Typical examples are: 'ein unbequemer Stuhl' (an uncomfortable chair), 'unbequeme Schuhe' (uncomfortable shoes), or 'eine unbequeme Position' (an uncomfortable position).
EXAMPLE
Ich habe mir ein neues Kissen gekauft, weil das alte so unbequem war.
I bought a new pillow because the old one was so uncomfortable.
Typical collocations
In a figurative sense, 'unbequem' (uncomfortable) often describes abstract things. Common combinations are: 'eine unbequeme Wahrheit' (an uncomfortable truth), 'eine unbequeme Frage' (an uncomfortable question), or 'eine unbequeme Stille' (an uncomfortable silence).
EXAMPLE
Als Journalist ist es seine Aufgabe, auch unbequeme Wahrheiten ans Licht zu bringen.
As a journalist, it is his job to bring uncomfortable truths to light as well.
Typical collocations
When it comes to time or organization, 'unbequem' (inconvenient) is often combined with appointments or times. Typical examples are: 'ein unbequemer Termin' (an inconvenient appointment) or 'eine unbequeme Uhrzeit' (an inconvenient time).
EXAMPLE
Können wir uns später treffen? 18 Uhr ist eine unbequeme Zeit für mich.
Can we meet later? 6 p.m. is an inconvenient time for me.
Compare with
unbequem vs schwierig
difficult
'schwierig' and 'unbequem' can both describe that something causes problems. 'schwierig' fits when something is hard to solve, understand, or manage. It can also describe a complicated person or a problematic situation. 'unbequem' is used more when something is unpleasant, annoying, or inconvenient, for example a question, an appointment, or a person who causes conflict. Learners may confuse the words because both fit when talking about problems. The difference is: 'schwierig' emphasizes the difficulty, while 'unbequem' emphasizes what is unpleasant or disruptive.
unbequem
Die Frage war unbequem, aber der Chef musste ehrlich antworten.
The question was uncomfortable, but the boss had to answer honestly.
schwierig
Das Gespräch mit dem Kunden war schwierig, weil viele Details unklar waren.
The conversation with the customer was difficult because many details were unclear.
In real life
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