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Schlagfertigkeit

quick wit, readiness of repartee

noun SHLAHK-fer-tikh-kite Rare
Communication Speech

Usage Note

Schlagfertigkeit is a valued social skill in German: the ability to respond instantly and wittily in conversation or debate. The adjective schlagfertig is equally common — eine schlagfertige Antwort.

Examples

"Mit ihrer Schlagfertigkeit brachte sie alle zum Lachen."

Natural Translation

With her quick wit she made everyone laugh.

Literal Translation

With her readiness-of-repartee she brought all to laughing.

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