mutwillig
willfully, deliberately (of harm)
adverb MOOT-vil-ikh Rare
Also means
wantonly
Usage Note
Mutwillig specifically describes causing damage or trouble deliberately and without justification. Mutwillig zerstören is the standard legal and journalistic phrase for vandalism. It differs from absichtlich in implying particular malice or recklessness.
Examples
"Die Fenster der Schule wurden mutwillig eingeschlagen."
Natural Translation
The school windows were smashed deliberately.
Literal Translation
The windows of-the school were willfully smashed-in.
Related Words
Explore German by topic
