phlegmatisch

phlegmatic, sluggishly calm

adjective fleg-MAH-tish Rare

Origin: from Greek via Latin 'phlegma' (mucus, one of the four humours)

Usage Note

Phlegmatisch describes a person of imperturbable, almost lethargic calm. Unlike gelassen, it implies a lack of energy or enthusiasm: sein phlegmatisches Wesen nervte die Kollegen.

Examples

"Der phlegmatische Beamte reagierte auf nichts mit Begeisterung."

Natural Translation

The phlegmatic official reacted to nothing with enthusiasm.

Literal Translation

The phlegmatic official reacted to nothing with enthusiasm.

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