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zärtlich
tender
In a gentle, loving, and emotional way. It describes an action or gesture that expresses affection.
example
Er gab ihr einen zärtlichen Kuss auf die Stirn.
He gave her a tender kiss on the forehead.
zärtlich
tender
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Zärtlich' (tender) is closely related to the adjective 'zart' (delicate, tender). While 'zart' often describes a quality, 'zärtlich' usually describes a loving action or gesture.
EXAMPLE
Die Mutter streichelte zärtlich über das weiche Haar ihres Babys.
The mother tenderly stroked her baby's soft hair.
Use as an adverb
'Zärtlich' (tenderly) is very often used as an adverb to describe a verb. It answers the question 'Wie?' (How?) and expresses a loving manner.
EXAMPLE
Er sah sie zärtlich an.
He looked at her tenderly.
Typical collocations
In its main meaning, 'zärtlich' (tender) is often combined with gestures of affection: a tender embrace, a tender kiss, tender words, or a tender touch.
EXAMPLE
Zum Abschied gab es eine lange, zärtliche Umarmung.
At the farewell, there was a long, tender embrace.
Register note
The meaning 'fein' (fine) or 'zerbrechlich' (fragile) is rare and is used mainly in poetry or in very figurative language. In everyday language, this meaning is unusual.
EXAMPLE
Im Frühling zeigen sich die ersten zärtlichen Blätter an den Bäumen.
In spring, the first delicate leaves appear on the trees.
Compare with
zärtlich vs herzlich
warm / heartfelt
'herzlich' and 'zärtlich' both have to do with warm feelings. 'herzlich' is broader and fits friendliness, thanks, sympathy, or an open greeting. It does not have to be physical. 'zärtlich', on the other hand, describes a gentle, loving gesture or action, often with physical contact, for example a touch, a kiss, or a hug. Learners may confuse the words because both are positive and emotional. The important point is: 'herzlich' shows warmth in how people treat each other, while 'zärtlich' shows gentle affection in a specific gesture.
zärtlich
Die Mutter streicht dem Kind zärtlich über die Haare.
The mother gently strokes the child's hair.
herzlich
Auf der Feier gratuliert er seiner Freundin herzlich zum Abschluss.
At the celebration, he warmly congratulates his friend on graduating.
In real life
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