kraftig

Kraftig is an adjective used in German (usually written kräftig) and in several North Germanic languages, including Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian. It denotes strength, forcefulness, or heaviness and is used to describe physical build, objects, sounds, or sensory impressions such as flavor or aroma. The term often conveys intensity or robustness rather than mere presence.

Etymology: Kraftig derives from the German noun Kraft, meaning power or strength, with the suffix -ig forming adjectives. In German, the standard spelling includes an umlaut—kräftig—whereas in the Scandinavian languages the form kraftig is common. The core sense across languages is “having or showing strength.”

Usage: In German kräftig is used for people who are strong (ein kräftiger Mann), for robust objects (ein kräftiges Werkzeug), a powerful voice (eine kräftige Stimme), or for potent flavors and aromas (kräftiger Kaffee, kräftiges Aroma). In Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish kraftig functions similarly, describing things that are intense, strong, or hearty, with typical collocations such as kraftig vind (strong wind) or kraftig smak (strong flavor).

Notes: While synonymous with words like stark or robust, kraftig emphasizes fullness, heft, and impact. The precise nuance varies by language and context, ranging from physical strength to sensory intensity and atmospheric force.