zähfließend

Zähfließend is a German adjective that describes a substance or process that flows very slowly or with great resistance. It literally translates to "tough-flowing" or "viscous." The term is often used in a scientific or technical context to describe the behavior of fluids that have a high viscosity, such as honey, molasses, or thick paint. In these cases, the internal friction of the substance prevents it from flowing easily.

Beyond its literal meaning, zähfließend can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is slow, difficult, or tedious to accomplish. For example, one might describe a bureaucratic process as zähfließend if it takes a very long time and involves many steps. Similarly, a difficult negotiation or a protracted argument could be characterized as zähfließend. The adjective conveys a sense of prolonged effort and a lack of smooth progression.

The concept of zähfließend is directly related to the physical property of viscosity. High viscosity means a fluid resists flow, and this resistance is what makes it "tough-flowing." In everyday language, terms like "thick" or "sluggish" can sometimes convey a similar meaning, but zähfließend often carries a stronger implication of resistance and slow movement.