geistesgegenwärtig
quick-witted, having presence of mind
adjective GEY-stes-ge-gen-vaer-tikh Rare
Usage Note
geistesgegenwärtig ('spirit-present') describes the ability to react swiftly and correctly in a sudden or unexpected situation. Geistesgegenwärtig handeln (to act with presence of mind) often appears in stories of rescues or accidents.
Examples
"Geistesgegenwärtig streckte er die Hand aus und verhinderte ihren Sturz."
Natural Translation
With quick presence of mind he stretched out his hand and prevented her fall.
Literal Translation
Present-in-spirit, he stretched out his hand and prevented her fall.
Related Words
- Abgeklärtheit serenity, mature composure, detached calm
- Anmaßung presumption, arrogance, overstepping
- Aufgeschlossenheit open-mindedness, receptiveness
- Bedachtheit deliberateness, thoughtful care, circumspection
- Begeisterungsfähigkeit capacity for enthusiasm
- Beharrungsvermögen tenacity, perseverance
- Beharrungswille persistence, determination to persist
- Beherrschtheit self-control, composure
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