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steif

stiff, rigid

adjective SHTAYF Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Conditions

Also means

formal, starchy

Usage Note

steif describes limbs or materials with restricted movement (steife Schultern, steifes Leder) and in social contexts means stiff or formal in manner. Steife Brise is also a set term in sailing (stiff breeze).

Examples

"Nach der langen Busfahrt waren ihre Beine ganz steif."

Natural Translation

After the long bus journey her legs were completely stiff.

Literal Translation

After the long bus ride were her legs completely stiff.

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