ungemütlich
uncomfortable
Describing an atmosphere or place that is not cozy, inviting, or comfortable.
EXAMPLE
Das Wartezimmer beim Arzt war kalt und ungemütlich.
The doctor's waiting room was cold and uncomfortable.
ungemütlich
uncomfortable
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Meanings
ungemütlich
uncomfortable
Describing a situation or person that is unpleasant, difficult, or confrontational.
EXAMPLE
Als er nach dem Fehler gefragt wurde, wurde die Stimmung im Raum sehr ungemütlich.
When he was asked about the mistake, the atmosphere in the room became very uncomfortable.
ungemütlich
miserable
Describing weather when it is cold, wet, and unpleasant.
EXAMPLE
Bei diesem ungemütlichen Wetter möchte man am liebsten zu Hause bleiben.
In this miserable weather, you just want to stay at home.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Ungemütlich' (uncomfortable) is the direct opposite of 'gemütlich' (cozy) and is formed with the prefix 'un-'. 'Gemütlich' is a central German word for a warm, cozy, and pleasant atmosphere.
EXAMPLE
Ohne Heizung war es im Winter in der alten Wohnung oft ungemütlich.
Without heating, the old apartment was often uncomfortable in winter.
Context clue
The context makes the meaning clear: If 'ungemütlich' (uncomfortable) refers to a place, it is not cozy. If it refers to a situation or question, it is unpleasant. If it refers to the weather, it is cold and wet.
EXAMPLE
Der harte Stuhl machte das lange Sitzen ungemütlich.
The hard chair made sitting for a long time uncomfortable.
Sentence structure and use
To describe an escalating, unpleasant situation, the expression 'es wird ungemütlich' (things are getting uncomfortable) is often used. This signals that the mood is shifting and conflicts may arise.
EXAMPLE
Als die Chefin von den Problemen erfuhr, wurde es für alle im Team ungemütlich.
When the boss found out about the problems, things became uncomfortable for everyone on the team.
Compare with
ungemütlich vs unangenehm
unpleasant
Unangenehm generally describes something that causes discomfort. Ungemütlich is especially appropriate when a place lacks coziness or comfort. A bothersome cold draft can therefore be unangenehm while also making a room ungemütlich.
ungemütlich
Durch den kalten Luftzug wird es im Wohnzimmer ungemütlich.
The cold draft makes the living room feel uninviting.
unangenehm
Der kalte Luftzug im Wohnzimmer ist unangenehm.
The cold draft in the living room is unpleasant.
In real life
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