Diese Seite in deiner Sprache

English

فارسی

العربية

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 Adjective / Verb (present participle) / Noun #50 am häufigsten 13 Min. Lesezeit

cracking

Top 50

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps cracking in 30 Sekunden

Erklärung cracking in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'cracking' is most often encountered as a verb describing a simple physical action. It is usually taught in the context of food or basic sounds. For example, 'I am cracking an egg' or 'The ice is cracking.' At this stage, students learn that it means something is starting to break but hasn't completely fallen apart yet. It is a very literal word. Teachers might use it to describe the sound of a dry branch breaking or the action of opening a nut. The focus is on the 'ing' ending as part of the present continuous tense, helping students describe what is happening right now. It is a useful word for basic daily activities and observing the world around them. Students are not expected to know the slang or idiomatic uses at this level, as those can be confusing. Instead, the emphasis is on clear, physical descriptions that can be easily visualized. By learning 'cracking' alongside other action verbs like 'cutting', 'breaking', and 'hitting', A1 learners build a foundation for describing physical processes and sounds in their environment.

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

At the A2 level, learners begin to see 'cracking' used to describe sounds more specifically. They might encounter it in simple stories or descriptions of weather. For instance, 'The cracking sound of the fire' or 'The cracking thunder.' Here, it moves slightly beyond just an action and becomes a way to describe an experience. A2 students also start to learn common phrasal verbs, and 'cracking up' might be introduced in a very simple context to mean laughing a lot, though it is still quite advanced for this level. The primary goal is to distinguish 'cracking' from 'breaking'. While 'breaking' often means something is ruined, 'cracking' suggests a line or a sound without total destruction. This nuance helps students become more descriptive in their speaking and writing. They might also see it in simple instructions, like 'Keep cracking the nuts until the bowl is full.' The word remains mostly literal, but the variety of physical contexts increases, including things like cracking a window (opening it slightly) or cracking a smile (starting to smile).

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

At the B1 level, the word 'cracking' expands significantly into its role as an adjective. This is where students learn the British colloquial meaning of 'excellent' or 'very good'. They will hear it in phrases like 'a cracking goal' or 'a cracking day out'. B1 learners are expected to understand that this usage is informal and mostly British. They also begin to learn more idiomatic phrasal verbs like 'get cracking' (to start something quickly) and 'crack down on' (to become more strict). At this level, the word becomes a tool for expressing enthusiasm and social engagement. A B1 student should be able to use 'cracking' to compliment a friend's work or describe a fun event. They also start to understand the metaphorical use of 'cracking' in terms of pressure, such as 'cracking under the stress of exams'. This transition from literal to figurative is a key milestone in B1 proficiency, allowing the student to express more complex emotions and opinions about quality and performance.

At the B2 level, learners should have a firm grasp of the multiple meanings of 'cracking' and be able to use them fluently in the appropriate contexts. They will understand the difference between 'cracking a joke' and 'cracking a code'. B2 students are expected to recognize the word in various registers, from technical reports about 'cracking' in building materials to informal chats where someone is 'cracking up' at a movie. They should also be comfortable with the phrasal verb 'crack on', using it naturally in a work or study environment to mean 'continue'. At this level, the nuance between 'cracking' and its synonyms like 'smashing' or 'fracturing' becomes important. A B2 learner can choose 'cracking' specifically to sound more like a native speaker or to convey a particular level of energy. They also understand the social implications of the word—knowing that calling a boss's idea 'cracking' is friendly but informal, whereas calling a scientific discovery 'cracking' might be seen as too casual. Their use of the word is no longer just about meaning, but about tone and register.

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

At the C1 level, the use of 'cracking' becomes highly nuanced and sophisticated. Learners understand the word's etymological roots and how it relates to sudden releases of energy. They can use it in literary descriptions to create atmosphere, such as 'the cracking of the dry earth under a relentless sun'. C1 students are also familiar with the more obscure technical uses, such as 'catalytic cracking' in the oil industry or 'password cracking' in cybersecurity, and can discuss these topics with precision. They are adept at using the word metaphorically to describe social or political situations, such as 'cracks appearing in the government's coalition'. At this level, the learner can play with the word, perhaps using it ironically or in a way that subverts its usual colloquial meaning. They have a deep understanding of the British cultural context of the word and can navigate its use in various dialects and social classes. Their vocabulary is rich enough that 'cracking' is just one of many tools they use to create specific effects in their communication.

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

At the C2 level, a learner's mastery of 'cracking' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. They understand the finest shades of meaning, such as the difference between a 'cracking pace' (fast and energetic) and a 'breakneck pace' (dangerously fast). They can appreciate the word's use in classic literature and modern media alike, recognizing how it has evolved over time. A C2 speaker can use 'cracking' in complex idiomatic expressions with ease and can even invent new, understandable metaphors based on its core meanings. They are aware of the phonological qualities of the word—the sharp 'k' sounds—and how they mimic the physical action of cracking, using this knowledge to enhance their oratory or creative writing. For a C2 learner, 'cracking' is not just a word to be defined, but a versatile instrument of expression that can convey everything from the highest praise to the most clinical technical observation, all while perfectly matching the intended social and cultural register.

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

cracking in 30 Sekunden

Cracking is a multi-functional word used as an adjective for excellence, a verb for breaking, and a noun for sharp sounds.
In British English, it is a popular informal way to describe something as superb, impressive, or high-quality.
Technically, it refers to the process of solving codes (cracking a code) or the physical fracturing of materials.
It is the root of several common phrasal verbs, including 'crack down' (enforce), 'crack up' (laugh), and 'crack on' (continue).

The word cracking is a versatile gem in the English language, functioning as an adjective, a verb, and a noun. At its most basic level, it describes the physical act of something breaking or the sound associated with that break. However, its most vibrant use, particularly in British English, is as an adjective meaning 'excellent' or 'superb'. When you hear a sports commentator shout, 'What a cracking goal!', they aren't talking about the ball breaking; they are celebrating a moment of pure brilliance. This dual nature makes it a fascinating study for learners who must distinguish between a physical fracture and a high-quality experience.

The Adjective of Excellence: In informal contexts, especially in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, 'cracking' is a high-energy synonym for 'great'. It implies a sense of liveliness, speed, or impressive quality. You might describe a 'cracking pace' during a race or a 'cracking read' when referring to a book you couldn't put down. It carries a certain enthusiasm that 'good' or 'nice' simply lacks.

We had a cracking time at the party last night; the music was perfect and everyone was dancing.

The Physical Verb and Noun: As a verb (the present participle of 'crack'), it refers to the process of creating a thin line or opening on the surface of something, or the act of solving something difficult. Think of 'cracking an egg' or 'cracking a code'. As a noun, it refers to the sound itself, like the 'cracking of a whip' or the 'cracking of knuckles'. This physical sense is universal across all English dialects.

The detective spent all night cracking the encryption on the suspect's laptop.

In social settings, 'cracking' is often used to build rapport. It shows enthusiasm and a positive outlook. Whether you are praising a friend's new car or describing a fast-paced movie, using 'cracking' adds a layer of British charm and energy to your speech. However, be mindful of the setting; while it's perfect for a pub or a casual office chat, it might be a bit too informal for a high-stakes legal document or a formal scientific report unless you are referring to the physical phenomenon of material fatigue.

The ice was cracking under the weight of the heavy snow, creating an eerie sound in the forest.

Metaphorical Pressure: Another common use involves psychological pressure. If someone is 'cracking under the strain', they are beginning to lose their composure or mental strength due to stress. This usage bridges the gap between the physical (breaking) and the abstract (emotional resilience). It is a powerful way to describe the human condition in high-pressure environments like exams, sports finals, or intense work projects.

Despite the pressure, the athlete showed no signs of cracking during the final set.

Finally, 'cracking' appears in the world of humor. To 'crack a joke' is to tell one, and 'cracking up' means to laugh uncontrollably. This highlights the word's association with sudden, sharp releases of energy—whether that energy is physical, emotional, or comedic. Understanding these nuances allows a learner to move beyond basic definitions and truly inhabit the language as a native speaker would, recognizing the difference between a cracking vase and a cracking vacation.

Using cracking correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function within a sentence. Because it can be an adjective, a verb, or a noun, its position and the words surrounding it will change significantly. Let's break down the sentence structures for each role to ensure you can deploy this word with confidence and precision.

As an Adjective (The 'Excellent' Sense): When used as an adjective, 'cracking' usually precedes the noun it modifies. It follows the standard adjective-noun pattern: [Article/Determiner] + cracking + [Noun]. It is rarely used after a linking verb (like 'is' or 'seems') in the same way 'good' is. For example, you would say 'That was a cracking game,' but you would rarely say 'That game was cracking' (though the latter is possible in very informal British slang).

She gave a cracking performance in the lead role of the play.

As a Verb (The 'Breaking' or 'Solving' Sense): As the present participle of 'crack', it is used in continuous tenses. The structure is [Subject] + [be verb] + cracking + [Object]. This can refer to physical objects, codes, or even the voice during puberty. It can also be used as a gerund (a verb acting as a noun), such as 'Cracking eggs is the first step in making an omelet.'

The engineers are cracking the problem of battery efficiency in cold weather.

As a Noun (The Sound or Action): When 'cracking' is a noun, it often follows a possessive or an article. The structure is [The/A/Possessive] + cracking + [of + Noun]. For example, 'the cracking of the whip' or 'his cracking of the safe'. It describes the specific instance or the ongoing sound of the action.

The sudden cracking of the branch startled the hikers in the woods.

In more complex sentences, 'cracking' can be part of phrasal verbs. 'Cracking up' (laughing or breaking down) and 'cracking down' (enforcing rules) are common. In these cases, the word 'cracking' is the head of the phrase and carries the tense. For example, 'The police are cracking down on speeding.' Here, 'cracking down' acts as a single unit of meaning. Similarly, 'cracking on' (continuing) is used as a cohesive verb phrase: 'We need to keep cracking on if we want to finish by five.'

The comedian had the entire audience cracking up within minutes of taking the stage.

The government is cracking down on tax evasion this year.

By mastering these patterns, you can ensure that 'cracking' fits naturally into your speech and writing. Whether you are describing a high-quality event, a physical process, or a phrasal action, the structural context will signal your meaning clearly to your audience.

The word cracking is ubiquitous, but its meaning shifts depending on the environment. From the roar of a football stadium to the quiet intensity of a cybersecurity lab, 'cracking' is a word that adapts to its surroundings. Understanding these contexts is key to recognizing why a speaker chose this specific word over a simpler alternative.

Sports and Entertainment: In the UK and Commonwealth countries, sports commentators are the primary users of 'cracking' as an adjective. You will hear it in football, cricket, and rugby broadcasts. 'A cracking shot,' 'a cracking delivery,' or 'a cracking atmosphere' are standard phrases. It conveys a sense of excitement and high quality that resonates with the energy of a live game.

'That is a cracking save by the goalkeeper!' the announcer yelled as the crowd erupted.

Technology and Cybersecurity: In the digital world, 'cracking' has a very specific, often technical meaning. It refers to the act of breaking into a secured computer system or bypassing software protection. While 'hacking' is a broader term, 'cracking' specifically implies breaking a lock or a code. You'll hear this in news reports about data breaches or in discussions among IT professionals about 'password cracking'.

The security team is testing the system's resilience against brute-force cracking attempts.

Daily Life and the Kitchen: In everyday domestic life, 'cracking' is most common in the kitchen. 'Cracking eggs' is a fundamental cooking term. You'll also hear it in reference to the weather ('the pavement is cracking in the heat') or personal habits ('stop cracking your knuckles'). In these cases, the word is literal and descriptive of physical actions and sounds.

I heard the cracking of the ice cubes as I poured the warm soda into the glass.

In the workplace, particularly in the UK, you will hear the phrasal verb 'crack on'. If a manager says, 'Let's get cracking,' they are signaling the end of a break and the start of productive work. It is a friendly but firm way to motivate a team. You might also hear 'cracking down' in news reports about law enforcement or corporate policy changes, indicating a new, stricter approach to rules.

We've got a lot to do before the deadline, so let's get cracking on the final report.

The city is cracking down on illegal parking in the downtown area.

Finally, in literature and storytelling, 'cracking' is often used to describe the atmosphere or a character's state of mind. A 'cracking fire' in a hearth creates a cozy, warm image, while a character 'cracking under pressure' creates tension and drama. By paying attention to these different 'homes' for the word, you can better understand the speaker's intent and the emotional weight they are trying to convey.

While cracking is a useful word, it is also a frequent source of confusion for English learners. Because it has multiple meanings and belongs to different word classes, it is easy to use it in a way that sounds unnatural or grammatically incorrect. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

Confusing 'Cracking' with 'Cracked': This is the most common error. 'Cracking' (adjective) means excellent, while 'cracked' (adjective) means damaged or broken. If you say 'That is a cracked idea,' you are saying the idea is flawed or crazy. If you say 'That is a cracking idea,' you are saying it is brilliant. Similarly, a 'cracking vase' is one that is currently in the process of breaking, while a 'cracked vase' already has a visible line of damage.

Incorrect: He is a cracked player. (Unless you mean he is mentally unstable!) Correct: He is a cracking player.

Overusing it in Formal Writing: As an adjective meaning 'excellent', 'cracking' is highly informal and colloquial. Using it in an academic essay or a formal business proposal can make the writing seem unprofessional. In these contexts, stick to words like 'excellent', 'outstanding', or 'exceptional'. Save 'cracking' for emails to colleagues, casual conversations, or creative writing.

Formal: The results of the study were exceptional. Informal: The results were cracking!

Misusing Phrasal Verbs: Learners often confuse 'crack down', 'crack up', and 'crack on'. 'Crack down' is about enforcement (police), 'crack up' is about laughing or mental health, and 'crack on' is about continuing work. Using 'crack up' when you mean 'crack on' can lead to significant confusion. For example, 'Let's crack up with the project' would mean 'Let's all have a mental breakdown or laugh at the project,' rather than 'Let's continue working on it.'

We need to crack on (continue) with the task, not crack down (enforce rules) on it.

Another subtle mistake is using 'cracking' as an adverb to mean 'very'. While you might hear 'cracking good', this is a specific idiomatic construction. You cannot generally use 'cracking' to modify other adjectives like 'cracking tall' or 'cracking expensive'. In those cases, 'very' or 'extremely' is required. Stick to the established patterns to avoid sounding like you are translating directly from another language.

Incorrect: It was a cracking difficult exam. Correct: It was a cracking (excellent) exam, though it was very difficult.

By keeping these distinctions in mind—especially the difference between 'cracking' and 'cracked' and the specific meanings of its phrasal verbs—you will be able to use this word accurately and effectively in any conversation.

To truly master cracking, it helps to see how it compares to its synonyms. Depending on whether you are using it to mean 'excellent', 'breaking', or 'solving', different alternatives will be more appropriate. Exploring these synonyms will help you expand your vocabulary and choose the exact word for the right situation.

Alternatives for 'Excellent'

Smashing: Very similar to 'cracking' in its British colloquial feel. 'A smashing day out.'
Brilliant: More common and less regional. Used for intelligence or general excellence.
Superb: A bit more formal than 'cracking', used to describe high quality.
Stellar: An American favorite for something exceptionally good.

While 'cracking' is energetic, 'smashing' feels slightly more old-fashioned but equally positive.

Alternatives for 'Breaking'

Fracturing: A more technical or medical term for cracking (e.g., a fracturing bone).
Splitting: Implies a break that goes all the way through or divides something into two.
Snapping: Used for something thin or brittle that breaks suddenly with a sharp sound.
Shattering: Implies breaking into many small pieces, much more violent than cracking.

The fracturing of the rock was caused by the freezing and thawing of water in the crevices.

Alternatives for 'Solving'

Deciphering: Specifically for codes, ancient languages, or messy handwriting.
Resolving: Used for conflicts, technical issues, or doubts.
Unraveling: Used for complex mysteries or complicated situations.
Decoding: Very similar to cracking in a technical or linguistic sense.

The historian spent years deciphering the ancient inscriptions on the temple walls.

When choosing between these words, consider the 'register' (formality) and the specific image you want to create. 'Cracking' is visceral and energetic. 'Fracturing' is clinical. 'Smashing' is cheerful. 'Deciphering' is intellectual. By understanding these subtle differences, you can move from being a competent English speaker to an expressive one.

Comparison Table

Word	Context	Vibe
Cracking	Casual/Sports	High Energy
Excellent	Anywhere	Standard
Superb	Formal/Reviews	High Quality

The detective was unraveling the mystery piece by piece, much like cracking a difficult code.

In summary, while 'cracking' is a fantastic and versatile word, knowing its neighbors in the dictionary allows you to be more precise. Use 'cracking' when you want to sound enthusiastic and informal, but don't be afraid to reach for 'fracturing' or 'superb' when the situation calls for a different tone.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The use of 'cracking' to mean 'excellent' first appeared in the late 18th century. It likely came from the idea of something being 'fast' or 'energetic', like a cracking whip or a horse moving at a cracking pace.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈkræk.ɪŋ/

US /ˈkræk.ɪŋ/

The stress is on the first syllable: CRACK-ing.

Reimt sich auf

Backing Lacking Packing Stacking Tracking Whacking Sacking Hacking

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'a' like 'ah' (cracking like 'clocking').
Dropping the 'k' sound in the middle.
Over-emphasizing the 'g' at the end in casual conversation.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'creaking'.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Easy to read in context, but multiple meanings require attention.

Schreiben 4/5

Using the adjective form correctly in formal vs informal settings is tricky.

Sprechen 3/5

Natural pronunciation is easy, but phrasal verbs take practice.

Hören 3/5

Distinctive sound makes it easy to hear, but slang meanings can be missed.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

Break Sound Good Code Joke

Als Nächstes lernen

Smashing Superb Fracture Enforcement Encryption

Fortgeschritten

Catalytic cracking Pathetic fallacy Onomatopoeia Vowel cracking Brute-force attack

Wichtige Grammatik

Present Participle as Adjective

The cracking ice was dangerous.

Gerund as Subject

Cracking codes is his favorite hobby.

Phrasal Verb Word Order

The police are cracking down on crime (not cracking crime down).

Intransitive vs Transitive

The glass is cracking (intransitive). He is cracking the glass (transitive).

Colloquial Adjective Placement

He is a cracking player (usually before the noun).

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

Beispiele nach Niveau

I am cracking the eggs for breakfast.

Je casse les œufs pour le petit-déjeuner.

Present continuous tense: Subject + am + verb-ing.

The dry wood is cracking in the fire.

Le bois sec craque dans le feu.

Verb describing a sound.

He is cracking a nut with a tool.

Il casse une noix avec un outil.

Transitive verb with a direct object.

The ice on the lake is cracking.

La glace sur le lac se fissure.

Intransitive use describing a natural process.

Stop cracking your fingers!

Arrête de te faire craquer les doigts !

Imperative sentence using a gerund.

I hear a cracking sound in the hall.

J'entends un bruit de craquement dans le couloir.

Adjective modifying the noun 'sound'.

The glass is cracking because it is hot.

Le verre se fissure parce qu'il est chaud.

Present continuous indicating a current change.

She is cracking the window to let air in.

Elle entrouvre la fenêtre pour laisser entrer l'air.

Idiomatic use meaning 'to open slightly'.

The cracking of the whip was very loud.

Le claquement du fouet était très fort.

Noun form: The + cracking + of.

He was cracking a smile during the movie.

Il commençait à sourire pendant le film.

Idiomatic phrase: 'crack a smile'.

The ground is cracking in the dry desert.

Le sol se fissure dans le désert sec.

Descriptive verb for environmental conditions.

We heard the cracking of dry leaves under our feet.

Nous avons entendu le craquement des feuilles sèches sous nos pieds.

Gerund used as a noun.

The old house makes cracking noises at night.

La vieille maison fait des bruits de craquement la nuit.

Adjective modifying 'noises'.

They are cracking the code to the safe.

Ils déchiffrent le code du coffre-fort.

Verb meaning 'to solve'.

The baby is cracking up at the funny dog.

Le bébé éclate de rire devant le chien rigolo.

Phrasal verb: 'crack up' (to laugh).

The paint on the wall is cracking and peeling.

La peinture sur le mur se fissure et s'écaille.

Describing physical deterioration.

That was a cracking goal in the final minute!

C'était un superbe but à la dernière minute !

Adjective meaning 'excellent' (British informal).

We need to get cracking if we want to finish on time.

Nous devons nous y mettre si nous voulons finir à l'heure.

Idiomatic phrase: 'get cracking' (to start).

The police are cracking down on illegal street racing.

La police sévit contre les courses de rue illégales.

Phrasal verb: 'crack down on' (to enforce rules).

She's a cracking tennis player for her age.

C'est une excellente joueuse de tennis pour son âge.

Adjective used as a compliment.

He's cracking under the pressure of the new job.

Il craque sous la pression de son nouveau travail.

Metaphorical use for emotional stress.

We had a cracking time at the beach yesterday.

On a passé un super moment à la plage hier.

Adjective modifying 'time'.

The detective is finally cracking the case.

Le détective est enfin en train de résoudre l'affaire.

Verb meaning 'to solve a mystery'.

It was a cracking read; I finished it in one day.

C'était une lecture passionnante ; je l'ai fini en un jour.

Adjective modifying 'read' (noun).

The government is cracking down on tax evasion.

Le gouvernement prend des mesures sévères contre l'évasion fiscale.

Phrasal verb indicating strict enforcement.

The comedian had the audience cracking up for two hours.

L'humoriste a fait mourir de rire le public pendant deux heures.

Phrasal verb: 'crack up' (causative use).

Let's crack on with the meeting so we can go home.

Continuons la réunion pour pouvoir rentrer chez nous.

Phrasal verb: 'crack on' (British informal).

The cracking of the whip echoed through the valley.

Le claquement du fouet a résonné dans la vallée.

Noun phrase used for atmospheric effect.

The material showed signs of cracking after the stress test.

Le matériau a montré des signes de fissuration après le test de résistance.

Technical noun use in engineering.

He's always cracking jokes, even in serious situations.

Il raconte toujours des blagues, même dans des situations sérieuses.

Idiomatic expression: 'crack a joke'.

The encryption was tough, but they are cracking it now.

Le cryptage était difficile, mais ils sont en train de le déchiffrer.

Verb used in a cybersecurity context.

It was a cracking pace, and many runners dropped out.

C'était une allure d'enfer, et beaucoup de coureurs ont abandonné.

Adjective meaning 'very fast and impressive'.

The cracking of the old regime began with small protests.

L'effondrement de l'ancien régime a commencé par de petites manifestations.

Metaphorical noun for political collapse.

The scientist explained the catalytic cracking process.

Le scientifique a expliqué le processus de craquage catalytique.

Technical term in chemistry/industry.

Her voice was cracking with emotion as she spoke.

Sa voix se brisait d'émotion pendant qu'elle parlait.

Describing a physiological response to stress.

The cracking of the silence was sudden and terrifying.

La rupture du silence fut soudaine et terrifiante.

Abstract noun use for dramatic effect.

They are cracking down on dissent within the party.

Ils répriment la dissidence au sein du parti.

Phrasal verb used in a political context.

The cracking sound of the glacier was like a gunshot.

Le craquement du glacier était comme un coup de feu.

Simile used with the noun 'cracking'.

He spent years cracking the secrets of the human genome.

Il a passé des années à percer les secrets du génome humain.

Metaphorical verb for scientific discovery.

It was a cracking performance that silenced the critics.

C'était une performance magistrale qui a fait taire les critiques.

High-level adjective for artistic excellence.

The cracking of the veneer revealed the rot beneath.

La fissuration du placage a révélé la pourriture en dessous.

Literal and metaphorical use for deception.

The city is cracking under the weight of its own success.

La ville croule sous le poids de son propre succès.

Metaphor for systemic failure due to growth.

The cracking of the whip of authority was felt by all.

Le claquement du fouet de l'autorité a été ressenti par tous.

Highly metaphorical literary use.

The cracking of the code was a triumph of human intellect.

Le déchiffrement du code fut un triomphe de l'intellect humain.

Noun form in a historical/academic context.

The cracking of the parched earth mirrored his own despair.

Les fissures de la terre desséchée reflétaient son propre désespoir.

Literary pathetic fallacy.

The cracking of the knuckles is a habit he cannot break.

Se faire craquer les articulations est une habitude qu'il ne peut perdre.

Gerund phrase as a subject.

The cracking of the hull was the first sign of the ship's doom.

La fissuration de la coque fut le premier signe de la perte du navire.

Noun indicating structural failure.

The cracking of the joke was perfectly timed for maximum effect.

Le fait de raconter la blague était parfaitement rythmé pour un effet maximum.

Gerund phrase used as a noun.

Häufige Kollokationen

Cracking pace

Cracking goal

Cracking joke

Cracking read

Cracking sound

Cracking eggs

Cracking the code

Cracking fire

Cracking performance

Cracking down

Häufige Phrasen

Get cracking

— To start doing something immediately and quickly. It is a common motivational phrase.

We have a lot to do, so let's get cracking.

Crack on

— To continue with a task, especially after a pause or to finish it quickly. Common in British English.

Stop talking and crack on with your work.

Crack up

— To laugh suddenly and uncontrollably. It can also mean to have a mental breakdown.

The funny movie made us all crack up.

Crack down

— To take strong action to stop something or to enforce rules more strictly.

The city is cracking down on littering.

Crack a smile

— To begin to smile, often when you are trying to stay serious.

He tried to look angry, but he finally cracked a smile.

Crack a joke

— To tell a joke.

He's always cracking jokes to lighten the mood.

Crack the whip

— To use your authority to make people work harder.

The manager had to crack the whip to meet the deadline.

At the cracking of dawn

— Very early in the morning (usually 'at the crack of dawn', but 'cracking' is sometimes used colloquially).

We had to be up at the cracking of dawn.

Cracking good

— An intensifier meaning 'very good'.

That was a cracking good meal.

Crack a bottle

— To open a bottle of wine or alcohol to celebrate.

Let's crack a bottle of champagne for the anniversary.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

cracking vs Cracked

'Cracking' is excellent or the act of breaking; 'cracked' is already broken or crazy.

cracking vs Creaking

'Cracking' is a sharp, sudden sound; 'creaking' is a long, slow sound like an old door.

cracking vs Croaking

'Cracking' is a sharp sound; 'croaking' is the sound a frog or a dying person makes.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Cracking the nut"

— Solving a particularly difficult problem or situation.

Finding a way to reduce costs was the hardest part of cracking the nut.

Informal

"Papering over the cracks"

— Trying to hide problems instead of fixing them (related to 'cracking').

The new policy is just papering over the cracks in the system.

Neutral

"Crack the case"

— To solve a mystery or a crime.

The detective finally cracked the case after finding the hidden letter.

Neutral

"A tough nut to crack"

— A person or problem that is very difficult to deal with or solve.

This math equation is a tough nut to crack.

Informal

"Fall through the cracks"

— To be overlooked or forgotten in a system.

Some students fall through the cracks because the classes are too large.

Neutral

"Crack a window"

— To open a window just a small amount.

It's a bit stuffy in here; can you crack a window?

Informal

"Crack the books"

— To start studying hard.

I need to crack the books if I want to pass the exam.

Informal

"Crack of doom"

— The end of the world; a loud, terrifying sound.

The thunder sounded like the crack of doom.

Literary

"Cracking wise"

— Making sarcastic or witty remarks.

Stop cracking wise and take this seriously.

Slang

"Crack a safe"

— To open a safe illegally or without the combination.

The burglars were experts at cracking safes.

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

cracking vs Fracturing

Both involve breaking.

Fracturing is more technical/medical; cracking is more common/colloquial.

The doctor said the bone is fracturing, but I just heard a cracking sound.

cracking vs Shattering

Both involve breaking.

Shattering means breaking into many pieces; cracking is just a line or a partial break.

The window didn't just crack; it shattered into a thousand pieces.

cracking vs Splitting

Both involve separation.

Splitting usually means dividing into two distinct parts; cracking is a surface break.

The wood was cracking, and then it finally split in half.

cracking vs Snapping

Both are sharp sounds.

Snapping is for long, thin objects (twigs); cracking is for surfaces or larger objects.

I heard a twig snapping and then the cracking of a large branch.

cracking vs Breaking

General term.

Breaking is the result; cracking is the specific way or sound of the break.

He is breaking the rules by cracking the computer's security.

Satzmuster

I am cracking [Noun].

I am cracking eggs.

The [Noun] is cracking.

The ice is cracking.

It was a cracking [Noun].

It was a cracking game.

Let's get cracking on [Noun/Gerund].

Let's get cracking on the homework.

[Subject] is cracking down on [Noun].

The boss is cracking down on long breaks.

[Subject] had [Object] cracking up.

The movie had us cracking up.

The cracking of [Noun] [Verb].

The cracking of the whip echoed.

[Subject] is cracking under [Noun].

The infrastructure is cracking under the population growth.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Crack

Cracker

Cracking

Crackdown

Crackerjack

Verben

Crack

Cracking

Adjektive

Cracked

Cracking

Crackling

Verwandt

Fracture

Fissure

Snap

Break

Burst

Registriere dich kostenlos, um alle Beispiele zu sehen

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in British English; moderate in American English.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'cracking' for something that is already broken. → The vase is cracked.
'Cracking' is the process or an adjective for excellence; 'cracked' is the state of being broken.
Saying 'Let's crack up with the work.' → Let's crack on with the work.
'Crack up' means to laugh; 'crack on' means to continue working.
Using 'cracking' in a formal academic essay. → The results were excellent.
'Cracking' is too informal and colloquial for academic writing.
Using 'cracking' as an adverb for 'very'. → It was a cracking good movie.
You can't say 'it was cracking hot'; you must use 'cracking' as an adjective or in specific idioms.
Confusing 'cracking' with 'creaking'. → The floorboards are creaking.
'Cracking' is a sharp snap; 'creaking' is a slow, groaning sound.

Tipps

Sound British

Use 'cracking' to describe a good meal or a fun day out to instantly sound more like a native speaker from the UK.

Adjective vs. Verb

Remember that 'a cracking vase' is one that is currently breaking, while 'a cracked vase' is already broken. Use the '-ed' form for the result.

Phrasal Verbs

Master 'crack on', 'crack up', and 'crack down'. These three phrasal verbs cover a huge range of common social and professional situations.

The Sharp 'K'

Make sure the 'k' sound in the middle is crisp. This helps convey the sharp, energetic nature of the word's meaning.

Tech Talk

In IT, 'cracking' is more specific than 'hacking'. Use 'cracking' when talking about passwords or software protection specifically.

Giving Compliments

'That's a cracking [Noun]' is a high-energy compliment. Use it for things people are proud of, like a new car or a successful project.

Creative Writing

Use the noun 'cracking' to create auditory imagery. 'The cracking of the dry leaves' is more evocative than 'the sound of leaves'.

Problem Solving

Use 'cracking the code' or 'cracking the case' to describe solving any difficult non-literal puzzle in your life.

Avoid Overuse

Because 'cracking' is such a strong word, using it too often in one conversation can make you sound overly excited or unnatural.

CEFR Progress

Moving from the literal A1 'cracking eggs' to the idiomatic B1 'cracking goal' is a great sign of your improving English fluency.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'cracking' egg. It's the start of something great (like a meal) and it makes a sharp sound. CRACK = Clever, Rapid, And Cool King.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a bright yellow egg cracking open to reveal a gold medal inside. The sound of the crack is loud and clear, and the medal represents 'excellent'.

Word Web

Excellent Breaking Sound Code Joke Speed Pressure British

Herausforderung

Try to use 'cracking' in three different ways today: once for a sound, once for an action, and once as a compliment.

Wortherkunft

The word 'cracking' comes from the Old English 'cracian', which meant to make a sharp noise. It is of onomatopoeic origin, meaning the word was created to sound like the action it describes. Over centuries, it evolved from just a sound to the action of breaking and eventually to the metaphorical sense of excellence.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To make a sharp, loud noise or to resound.

Germanic (Old English, Middle Dutch 'cracken').

Kultureller Kontext

Generally safe and positive. However, 'cracking up' can refer to mental health struggles, so use it sensitively in serious contexts.

Highly common in the UK, Australia, and NZ. Less common as an adjective in the US.

Wallace and Gromit: Wallace often uses British colloquialisms like 'cracking' (e.g., 'Cracking toast, Gromit!'). James Bond: Often features 'cracking' codes or high-speed 'cracking' chases. Sports Commentary: Iconic British announcers frequently use 'cracking' to describe goals or shots.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Sports

A cracking shot
A cracking save
At a cracking pace
A cracking atmosphere

Cooking

Cracking eggs
Cracking nuts
Cracking pepper
Cracking the shell

Work/Productivity

Get cracking
Crack on with it
Cracking the case
Cracking the code

Social/Humor

Cracking a joke
Cracking up
A cracking time
Cracking a smile

Nature/Environment

Cracking ice
Cracking thunder
Cracking wood
Cracking earth

Gesprächseinstiege

"That was a cracking game of football last night, wasn't it?"

"I've been cracking my brain trying to solve this puzzle; any ideas?"

"We really need to get cracking on our holiday plans before prices go up."

"Did you see that comedian? I was cracking up the whole time!"

"It's a cracking day outside; do you want to go for a walk?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe a time when you had a cracking experience that you will never forget.

Write about a difficult problem you finally succeeded in cracking.

What are some things that make you crack up with laughter every time?

Reflect on a situation where you felt like you were cracking under pressure.

Describe the sounds of a forest using the word 'cracking' in different ways.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

While the adjective meaning 'excellent' is primarily British, the verb and noun meanings (breaking, sound, solving) are used in all forms of English, including American and Australian. Americans also use 'cracking a joke' or 'cracking a code' frequently.

No, you would usually say 'He is a cracking guy' or 'He is a cracking player.' Using 'cracking' alone as a predicate adjective after 'is' to mean 'excellent' is rare and can be confusing.

'Crack up' usually means to laugh uncontrollably, though it can also mean a mental collapse. 'Break down' is more commonly used for machines stopping or for someone becoming very sad and crying. 'Crack up' is more sudden and energetic.

It is used as an imperative or a suggestion to start work. Example: 'The deadline is in an hour, so we'd better get cracking!' It is synonymous with 'let's get started' but with more urgency.

It depends on the context. As an adjective for quality, it is very positive. As a verb for breaking something valuable, it is negative. In cybersecurity, 'cracking' is often associated with illegal activities, which is negative.

Technically, 'cracking' is an adjective or verb. However, in the phrase 'cracking good', it acts as an intensifier, similar to an adverb. You cannot use it to modify most other adjectives, though.

It means a manager is being very strict and making the employees work much harder than usual, often to meet a difficult deadline. It comes from the literal action of a person driving animals with a whip.

This is a technical term in chemistry and the oil industry. It refers to the process of breaking down large, complex organic molecules into simpler ones, like turning heavy oil into gasoline.

People do it as a habit or to relieve tension. The 'cracking' sound is actually caused by bubbles of gas popping in the fluid around the joints. In English, we use the verb 'cracking' to describe this specific sound.

It is fine for a casual email to a colleague you know well (e.g., 'Cracking job on that report!'). However, for a formal email to a client or a superior, it is better to use 'excellent' or 'great'.

Registriere dich kostenlos für Tipps & Notizen