01
unverschämt
cheeky / rude
Bold, impudent, or disrespectful in a way that violates the limits of decency.
example
Es ist unverschämt, in der Schlange einfach vorzudrängeln.
It's rude to simply push ahead in line.
unverschämt
cheeky / outrageous
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' (not) and the adjective 'verschämt' (shy, full of shame). Someone who is 'unverschämt' (cheeky/rude) therefore acts without shame and respect.
EXAMPLE
Seine unverschämte Art macht ihn bei den Kollegen unbeliebt.
His cheeky manner makes him unpopular with his colleagues.
Context clue
If 'unverschämt' (cheeky/rude) refers to a person or their behavior, it means 'frech' (cheeky/rude). If it refers to a quality such as a price, luck, or beauty, it means 'extreme' or 'surprising.'
EXAMPLE
Das war eine unverschämte Frage!
That was a rude question!
As an intensifier
In its colloquial meaning, 'unverschämt' (outrageously) functions like an adverb that intensifies another adjective or state to an extreme degree. It often expresses surprise or disbelief.
EXAMPLE
Das neue Smartphone ist unverschämt teuer.
The new smartphone is outrageously expensive.
Compare with
unverschämt vs extrem
extreme
'extrem' and 'unverschämt' can both express something very strong. 'extrem' is more neutral and works with many adjectives, for example 'extrem kalt' (extremely cold), 'extrem wichtig' (extremely important), or 'extrem schwierig' (extremely difficult). 'unverschämt' actually means cheeky, rude, or disrespectful. Colloquially, however, it can also express a very high degree, often with a negative or judgmental tone, for example 'unverschämt teuer' (outrageously expensive). The words are easy to confuse if you only want to say 'very'. If no rudeness or strong judgment is meant, 'extrem' is usually safer.
unverschämt
Der Kellner war unverschämt, weil er die Gäste laut ausgelacht hat.
The waiter was rude because he laughed loudly at the guests.
extrem
Am Abend sind wir nach der langen Reise extrem müde.
In the evening, after the long journey, we are extremely tired.
In real life
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