peinlich

Peinlich is a German adjective meaning embarrassing or awkward. In everyday language it describes situations, behavior, or moments that provoke social discomfort, shame, or a heightened sense of self-consciousness. The word can also convey a stronger sense of distress in more emotional contexts, as in being deeply ashamed.

Etymology and related terms: Peinlich derives from the noun Pein, meaning pain or suffering, and originally signified something painful or causing distress. The related noun Peinlichkeit expresses embarrassment or awkwardness, and the adjective can carry a range of degrees from mildly awkward to highly embarrassing.

Usage and examples: Peinlich is widely used in both spoken and written German. Common phrases include: Das ist peinlich (That’s embarrassing); Eine peinliche Situation (an awkward situation); Ein peinlicher Fehler (an embarrassing mistake). It also occurs in the idiom peinlich genau, meaning painfully meticulous or painstakingly exact. The expression ich fühle mich peinlich berührt or mir ist das peinlich describes personal embarrassment.

Nuance and alternatives: While peinlich is versatile, it can be strong or colloquial. In formal contexts and to soften the tone, speakers may choose unangenehm (unpleasant), beschämend (shaming), or peinlich in a milder sense depending on context. Peinlichkeit, the corresponding noun, denotes the state or quality of being embarrassed or awkward.

See also: Peinlichkeit; embarrassment, awkwardness; related adjectives describing discomfort in social situations.