ergernis

Ergernis is a noun used in Dutch to denote something that causes annoyance, irritation, or nuisance. In German, Ärgernis shares a related sense and can also mean a grievance, offense, or, in religious or philosophical contexts, a stumbling block that provokes moral opposition.

Etymology: In Dutch, ergernis is derived from the verb ergeren, meaning to annoy, with the noun-forming suffix -nis. In German, Ärgernis comes from Ärger (anger, trouble) plus the same suffix -nis. Both terms originate in the Germanic linguistic family and center on sources of vexation, objection, or discord.

Usage: In Dutch, ergernis describes a recurring annoyance or nuisance, such as bureaucratic delays, poor service, or everyday irritations. Common phrases include "Dat is een ergernis" or "Het is een ergernis dat..." The related verb ergeren means to annoy or irritate; "iemand ergert mij" means someone annoys me. In German, Ärgernis functions similarly in ordinary speech and can also denote a formal grievance or objection. In religious contexts, especially in theology and biblical translation, Ärgernis often means a scandal or stumbling block that causes others to falter in faith, a sense closely linked to the idea of an obstacle to belief.

See also: Nuisance, Scandal, Stumbling block. The terms cross-linguistically share the core idea of something that provokes displeasure, irritation, or moral concern.