Usage Note
zerknirscht is the adjective form of Zerknirschung; it describes a visibly contrite, crushed-by-guilt demeanour. It often appears in religious or formal apologetic contexts. Mit zerknirschter Miene (with a contrite expression).
Examples
"Zerknirscht entschuldigte er sich für sein Verhalten beim Abendessen."
Natural Translation
Contrite, he apologised for his behaviour at dinner.
Literal Translation
Contrite apologised he for his behaviour at-the dinner.
Related Words
- Abgestumpftheit emotional numbness, blunted sensitivity
- Abneigung aversion, dislike, antipathy
- Anmut grace, gracefulness, charm
- Aufgewühltheit emotional turmoil, being churned up
- Bangigkeit anxiety, apprehension, fearful unease
- Bedrängnis distress, straits, predicament
- Bedrömmeltheit stunned, dazed emotional numbness
- Bedrücktheit oppressive heaviness of spirit, dejected low mood
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