besoffen

Besoffen is a Dutch adjective used to describe someone who is heavily intoxicated by alcohol. It refers to a state in which mental and motor functions are impaired, often with slurred speech, unsteady movement, and reduced self-control. The term is informal and common in everyday speech, typically implying a higher degree of intoxication than milder terms.

Besoffen arises after significant alcohol consumption in a relatively short period. The level of intoxication can range from talkative and giddy to severely impaired, with symptoms such as slowed reaction times, poor balance, memory gaps, and impaired judgment. In extreme cases, alcohol poisoning can occur, which is a medical emergency. Repeated episodes of heavy drinking contribute to broader health risks and can have social or personal consequences.

In everyday language, besoffen is used to describe someone who appears visibly intoxicated and is usually understood as more emphatic than the more neutral term dronken. It carries a strong negative connotation and is generally unsuitable for formal or clinical contexts, where terms like intoxiceerd or alcohol-verwond could be used depending on the setting.

Zie ook: dronken, intoxicatie, alcoholvergiftiging.