infinity
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infinity
The state of being without end, boundary, or limit, especially with regard to time, space, or quantity.
Die Vorstellung von der Unendlichkeit des Universums fasziniert die Menschen seit jeher.
The idea of the infinity of the universe has always fascinated people.
eternity
A subjectively very long, seemingly endless period of time.
Es dauerte eine halbe Unendlichkeit, bis der Bus endlich kam.
It took half an eternity before the bus finally came.
The word can be broken down logically: The prefix 'un-' negates 'Ende' (end). The endings '-lich' and '-keit' turn it into a noun. So it literally describes the state of 'Nicht-Endens' (not ending).
Die Unendlichkeit der Wüste war beeindruckend und beängstigend zugleich.
The infinity of the desert was impressive and frightening at the same time.
The literal meaning is found in scientific or philosophical contexts, e.g. 'die Unendlichkeit des Universums' (the infinity of the universe). The figurative meaning of a long period of time can be recognized by verbs of waiting or duration, e.g. 'es dauerte eine Unendlichkeit' (it took an eternity).
Die Mathematikerin hielt einen Vortrag über die Unendlichkeit der Zahlen.
The mathematician gave a lecture on the infinity of numbers.
In the philosophical or astronomical sense, 'Unendlichkeit' (infinity) is often used with a genitive that specifies the area. Typical combinations are 'die Unendlichkeit des Raumes' (the infinity of space) or 'die Unendlichkeit der Zeit' (the infinity of time).
Manche Menschen blicken nachts in die Sterne und denken über die Unendlichkeit des Raumes nach.
Some people look at the stars at night and think about the infinity of space.
In the colloquial meaning, the phrase 'eine halbe Unendlichkeit' (half an eternity) is often used. This intensifies the subjective and exaggerated perception of the long duration.
Wir haben eine halbe Unendlichkeit auf unser Essen gewartet.
We waited half an eternity for our food.
eternity
Both words can express a seemingly or actually endless duration. „Die Ewigkeit“ mainly refers to time and is also used for a very long period that feels endless. „Die Unendlichkeit“ is more general and can additionally refer to space, quantities, or other forms of limitlessness.
Beim Blick in den klaren Nachthimmel dachte sie über die Unendlichkeit des Weltraums nach.
As she gazed at the clear night sky, she thought about the infinity of outer space.
Nach dem langen Warten kam es mir wie eine Ewigkeit vor.
After the long wait, it felt like an eternity to me.
