civilized
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civilized
Showing a high level of cultural and social development. Refers to behavior that is considered polite, well-mannered, and reasonable.
Auch wenn wir unterschiedlicher Meinung sind, können wir die Diskussion zivilisiert führen.
Even if we have different opinions, we can conduct the discussion in a civilized way.
'Zivilisiert' (civilized) is the past participle of the verb 'zivilisieren' (to civilize) and is closely related to the noun 'die Zivilisation' (civilization). All the words relate to the idea of culture, social order, and well-mannered behavior.
Es dauerte Jahrhunderte, diese Region zu zivilisieren.
It took centuries to civilize this region.
The prefix 'un-' forms the direct opposite: 'unzivilisiert' (uncivilized). This word describes behavior perceived as crude, impolite, or barbaric.
Sein unzivilisiertes Verhalten bei Tisch hat alle schockiert.
His uncivilized behavior at the table shocked everyone.
In the meaning 'höflich' (polite), 'zivilisiert' (civilized) often describes the manner of communication or interaction with one another. Typical combinations are 'ein zivilisierter Umgang' (civilized interaction), 'eine zivilisierte Diskussion' (a civilized discussion), or 'sich zivilisiert verhalten' (to behave in a civilized way).
Lasst uns versuchen, diese Meinungsverschiedenheit auf eine zivilisierte Weise zu klären.
Let's try to resolve this disagreement in a civilized way.
This meaning is used mainly in historical, sociological, or anthropological texts. It refers to entire societies, peoples, or cultures and their stage of development.
Die Ausstellung zeigt Werkzeuge früher zivilisierter Völker in Mesopotamien.
The exhibition shows tools of early civilized peoples in Mesopotamia.
reasonable / decent
'vernünftig' and 'zivilisiert' can both describe positive, controlled behavior. 'vernünftig' emphasizes that someone thinks sensibly and acts thoughtfully. 'zivilisiert' emphasizes more that someone deals with others politely, calmly, and in a well-mannered way. For a decision, a plan, or a price, 'vernünftig' fits better. For an argument, behavior, or conversations, 'zivilisiert' fits better when you mean that people remain respectful.
Trotz des Streits blieb das Gespräch ruhig und zivilisiert.
Despite the argument, the conversation remained calm and civilized.
Die Kundin prüft zuerst den Preis und trifft dann eine vernünftige Entscheidung.
The customer first checks the price and then makes a reasonable decision.