Leise

Leise is a German word that functions as both an adjective and an adverb. As an adjective it means quiet or soft when describing a noun, for example: ein leises Geräusch (a quiet noise) or eine leise Stimme (a quiet/soft voice). When used predicatively or as an adverb, it means quietly or softly: Er spricht leise (He speaks softly); Mach bitte leise (Please be quiet). The adverb form is invariable with respect to gender and number, while the attributive adjective follows standard German inflection: ein leises Geräusch, eine leise Stimme, das leise Knistern.

Pronunciation: leise is pronounced roughly as [ˈlaɪ.zə], with a long "i" sound in the first syllable and a final schwa sound after the "z."

Usage and nuance: Leise describes low volume, subdued tones, or gentle action. It can refer to sound, light, movement, or atmosphere that is restrained or non-obtrusive. It often appears in contexts ranging from everyday speech to literature and media, and is opposite to laut (loud). Related expressions include leiser (comparative form: quieter) and the noun phrase das Leise, used in some idiomatic or literary contexts.

Origin: Leise is a standard German word with roots in the historic development of the German language. It is widely used across German-speaking regions.

See also: laut; leiser.