01
die Wucht
force / impact
A great, often sudden force or strength that arises during a movement or collision.
example
Der LKW traf den Baum mit voller Wucht.
The truck hit the tree with full force.
die Wucht
force
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'die Wucht' (force) is related to the verb 'wuchten', which means to move something heavy with great effort. 'Die Wucht' describes the force that arises or is needed in the process.
EXAMPLE
Er musste den schweren Stein mit aller Kraft zur Seite wuchten.
He had to heave the heavy stone aside with all his strength.
Typical collocation
In the physical meaning, 'Wucht' is very often used with the preposition 'mit' (with) and an adjective to describe the strength of an impact. The most common combination is 'mit voller Wucht' (with full force).
EXAMPLE
Die Welle traf das Boot mit voller Wucht.
The wave hit the boat with full force.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning by the fact that it is not about a physical impact, but about the effect of abstract things such as images, words, or feelings.
EXAMPLE
Die emotionale Wucht des Films hat alle Zuschauer tief berührt.
The emotional impact of the film deeply moved all the viewers.
Fixed expression
The expression 'eine Wucht sein' (to be amazing) is a fixed phrase. The structure is always '[person/thing] + sein + eine Wucht'.
EXAMPLE
Deine neue Frisur ist echt eine Wucht!
Your new hairstyle is really amazing!
Register: colloquial
The expression 'eine Wucht sein' (to be amazing) is used almost exclusively in informal everyday language to express enthusiasm.
EXAMPLE
Danke für das tolle Geschenk, du bist eine Wucht!
Thanks for the great gift, you're amazing!
Compare with
Wucht vs Kraft
strength / force
'die Kraft' and 'die Wucht' both describe a strong effect. 'Kraft' is more general and can be physical, natural, technical, or abstract. 'Wucht' usually means an especially great, often sudden force, for example in a blow, push, or impact. In a figurative sense, 'Wucht' can also mean a very strong effect on people. Learners may confuse the words because both express strength. If something acts calmly or generally, 'Kraft' fits better; if something hits hard or overwhelms, 'Wucht' is more precise.
Wucht
Der Ball traf die Mauer mit solcher Wucht, dass ein Stein herausbrach.
The ball hit the wall with such force that a stone broke loose.
Kraft
Die Maschine arbeitet mit großer Kraft und hebt die schwere Platte an.
The machine works with great force and lifts the heavy plate.
In real life
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