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A2 adjective #3,000 le plus courant 13 min de lecture

nervös

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces nervös en 30 secondes
Explication nervös in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to navigate the vast and fascinating landscape of the German language. The word nervös is introduced early on because expressing basic emotions and physical states is a fundamental communicative need. For an A1 learner, the primary goal is to be able to state simply how they are feeling. The most critical structure to master at this stage is the combination of the personal pronoun, the conjugated form of the verb sein (to be), and the adjective nervös. Therefore, sentences like 'Ich bin nervös' (I am nervous), 'Bist du nervös?' (Are you nervous?), and 'Er ist nervös' (He is nervous) form the core of the learner's interaction with this word. At this level, learners are not expected to explain complex reasons for their nervousness or use intricate grammatical structures. Instead, the focus is on vocabulary acquisition and basic sentence formation. Teachers often use flashcards with facial expressions or simple role-playing scenarios, such as pretending to wait for a bus or taking a simple test, to contextualize the word. The pronunciation is also a key focus, particularly the 'ö' sound, which can be challenging for speakers of languages that do not have this phoneme. Practicing the rounded lip shape for 'ö' is essential. Furthermore, A1 learners begin to recognize the word when spoken by others, allowing them to respond with simple empathy, such as saying 'Oh, das tut mir leid' (Oh, I am sorry) or 'Kein Problem' (No problem). By mastering the basic predicative use of nervös, A1 learners build a crucial foundation for emotional expression, enabling them to communicate their comfort levels and participate more fully in basic social interactions in a German-speaking environment.
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As learners progress to the A2 level, their ability to express themselves becomes more nuanced and detailed. While they still use the basic 'Ich bin nervös' structure, the focus shifts to explaining the reasons behind their emotional state. This involves integrating conjunctions like 'weil' (because) or 'wenn' (when/if), which introduces subordinate clauses and requires moving the conjugated verb to the end of the sentence. For example, an A2 learner should be able to say, 'Ich bin nervös, weil ich morgen eine Prüfung habe' (I am nervous because I have an exam tomorrow). This represents a significant leap in communicative competence, allowing learners to provide context for their feelings. Additionally, A2 learners begin to use prepositions to link the adjective to the cause, primarily using 'vor' (before) with the dative case: 'Ich bin nervös vor dem Test' (I am nervous before the test). At this stage, learners also start encountering nervös used attributively before nouns, requiring them to apply basic adjective declension rules, such as 'ein nervöser Mann' (a nervous man). The vocabulary surrounding nervös also expands, incorporating words related to the situations that cause anxiety, such as 'das Vorstellungsgespräch' (job interview), 'die Reise' (the trip), or 'der Arzttermin' (the doctor's appointment). Role-playing becomes more complex, involving scenarios like explaining to a doctor why they feel anxious or discussing upcoming stressful events with a friend. By mastering these expanded structures, A2 learners transition from simply stating their feelings to actively discussing and explaining their emotional landscape in a much more conversational and natural manner.
At the B1 level, learners are expected to handle a wide variety of everyday situations and express their thoughts and feelings with greater precision and fluency. The use of nervös at this stage becomes much more sophisticated. Learners are now comfortable with subordinate clauses and prepositional phrases, and they begin to explore the nuances between nervös and its synonyms, such as aufgeregt (excited/nervous), ängstlich (fearful), and unruhig (restless). A B1 learner understands that while one might be 'aufgeregt' before a holiday, they are 'nervös' before a difficult conversation. This semantic differentiation is crucial for sounding more like a native speaker. Furthermore, B1 learners actively use the causative construction 'etwas macht mich nervös' (something makes me nervous), allowing them to describe external triggers more dynamically: 'Der viele Verkehr macht mich nervös' (The heavy traffic makes me nervous). They also begin to use adverbs of degree more frequently to modulate the intensity of the adjective, such as 'ziemlich nervös' (quite nervous), 'leicht nervös' (slightly nervous), or 'wahnsinnig nervös' (incredibly nervous). In terms of grammar, the attributive use of nervös becomes second nature, with learners confidently applying correct adjective endings across all cases (nominative, accusative, dative, genitive). The contexts in which they use the word also broaden, encompassing professional discussions, travel complications, and interpersonal conflicts. B1 learners can narrate a story about a time they were nervous, using past tenses (Präteritum and Perfekt) effectively: 'Ich war sehr nervös, als ich die Rede hielt' (I was very nervous when I gave the speech). This level marks the transition from functional communication to expressive storytelling.
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Reaching the B2 level signifies a high degree of fluency and the ability to engage in complex, abstract discussions. For a B2 learner, using the word nervös is no longer just about describing a basic feeling; it is about integrating the concept into broader discussions about psychology, stress management, workplace dynamics, and societal pressures. B2 learners can articulate the physical and mental symptoms of nervousness using advanced vocabulary, such as 'Herzklopfen' (palpitations), 'Schweißausbrüche' (sweating), or 'Konzentrationsschwäche' (lack of concentration). They can comfortably discuss strategies for overcoming anxiety, using phrases like 'seine Nervosität in den Griff bekommen' (to get one's nervousness under control). At this level, learners are also introduced to idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms related to being nervous, such as 'weiche Knie haben' (to have weak knees) or 'auf heißen Kohlen sitzen' (to be on pins and needles). The grammatical structures employed are complex, often involving passive voice, subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II) for hypothetical situations ('Wenn ich an deiner Stelle wäre, wäre ich auch nervös' - If I were in your shoes, I would be nervous too), and extended participial phrases. B2 learners can read and comprehend newspaper articles or listen to podcasts discussing the psychological impact of modern life, where words like nervös, gestresst (stressed), and überlastet (overwhelmed) are frequently used. They can write detailed essays or reports analyzing the causes and effects of nervousness in different demographic groups. The use of nervös at the B2 level is characterized by a deep understanding of context, register, and the ability to express complex emotional states with precision and grammatical accuracy.
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At the C1 level, learners possess an advanced, near-native command of the German language. Their use of the word nervös and its associated vocabulary is highly nuanced, flexible, and contextually appropriate across all registers, from highly academic writing to casual, colloquial speech. A C1 learner understands the subtle psychological distinctions between various states of anxiety and can employ a rich lexicon of synonyms and related terms, such as 'angespannt' (tense), 'fahrig' (erratic/fidgety), 'hektisch' (hectic), or 'panisch' (panicked), choosing the exact word that fits the specific shade of meaning required. They can engage in deep, philosophical, or psychological discussions about the nature of anxiety, the impact of stress on the nervous system, and societal trends contributing to collective nervousness. Grammatically, C1 learners manipulate sentence structures effortlessly, using nominalizations (e.g., 'Die Nervosität der Märkte' - the nervousness of the markets) and complex prepositional phrases to convey sophisticated ideas. They are adept at using nervös in metaphorical contexts, such as describing a 'nervöse Stimmung' (nervous atmosphere) in a room or a 'nervöser Markt' (volatile market) in economics. Furthermore, C1 learners are fully comfortable with the stylistic devices used in literature and journalism to depict nervousness, recognizing how authors build tension through descriptive language. They can easily switch between formal, objective descriptions of anxiety in a professional report and highly expressive, idiomatic descriptions in a personal narrative. The mastery of nervös at the C1 level demonstrates not just linguistic competence, but a profound cultural and psychological understanding of how emotions are conceptualized and communicated in the German-speaking world.
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The C2 level represents absolute mastery of the German language, equivalent to that of a highly educated native speaker. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, the use of the word nervös is entirely intuitive and seamlessly integrated into a vast, sophisticated vocabulary. A C2 speaker does not merely use the word; they play with it, employing it in creative, literary, and highly rhetorical ways. They understand the historical and etymological evolution of the word, recognizing its roots in medical terminology and its shift into everyday psychological parlance. In academic or professional discourse, a C2 speaker can deliver complex presentations or write comprehensive treatises on topics related to psychology, sociology, or economics, using terms like nervös alongside highly specialized jargon without any hesitation. They can analyze classical German literature, identifying how authors like Thomas Mann or Franz Kafka utilize the concept of nervousness to explore existential dread or societal decay. Furthermore, C2 speakers possess a complete command of regional variations and highly specific colloquialisms related to anxiety, allowing them to blend in perfectly in any social setting across the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). They can employ irony, sarcasm, and humor when discussing nervousness, demonstrating a deep cultural fluency that goes far beyond textbook definitions. At the C2 level, the word nervös is a tool for precise, elegant, and impactful communication, reflecting a profound mastery of the emotional and psychological dimensions of the German language.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

nervös en 30 secondes

  • Means 'nervous' or 'anxious' in English, describing a state of worry or apprehension.
  • Commonly used with the verb 'sein' (to be) or 'werden' (to become).
  • Often paired with the preposition 'vor' (before) + dative to explain the cause.
  • Do not confuse it with 'nervig', which means 'annoying' or 'irritating'.
The German adjective nervös is an incredibly important and highly versatile word that translates directly to the English words nervous, anxious, or edgy. When you are learning German, understanding the subtle nuances of emotional vocabulary is absolutely essential for achieving true fluency and cultural competence. The word nervös is a prime example of a highly versatile, universally understood term that permeates everyday conversations, professional environments, academic settings, and interpersonal relationships. It describes a state of psychological or physiological unrest, typically triggered by anticipation, fear, stress, or uncertainty about a future event. For instance, a student might feel nervös before a major university examination, a professional might feel nervös before a critical presentation to the board of directors, and an individual might feel nervös before a first date. This emotional state is universal, making the word highly applicable in countless scenarios. In German culture, expressing that you are nervös is completely acceptable and often encourages empathy and support from those around you.
Psychological State
Refers to the mental feeling of anxiety, worry, or apprehension regarding an upcoming situation.

Ich bin vor der Prüfung sehr nervös.

Beyond just the mental state, nervös also encompasses the physical manifestations of anxiety. People who are nervös might experience a racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, shallow breathing, or a general sense of restlessness.
Physical State
Describes the bodily reactions to stress, such as trembling, sweating, or an inability to sit still.

Er wird immer nervös, wenn er vor vielen Leuten sprechen muss.

It is fascinating to note how the usage of nervös compares to similar words in German, such as aufgeregt (excited/nervous) or ängstlich (fearful). While aufgeregt can have a positive connotation, similar to being thrilled or eagerly anticipating something, nervös almost exclusively carries a neutral to negative connotation, focusing on the discomfort of the anxiety.

Sie machte einen sehr nervösen Eindruck auf mich.

When discussing the etymology, the word originates from the Latin 'nervosus', meaning sinewy or vigorous, which later evolved in medical and psychological contexts to describe the nervous system and, eventually, the state of being easily agitated.
Medical Context
Historically used to describe conditions related to the nervous system, though now mostly colloquial.

Mein Hund ist bei Gewitter immer extrem nervös.

In modern German, you will hear this word constantly in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you are watching a German television show, reading a contemporary novel, or chatting with a friend at a café in Berlin, nervös is a staple of the emotional lexicon.

Bitte mach mich nicht noch nervöser, als ich ohnehin schon bin!

To master this word, you must practice using it in various sentence structures, paying attention to adjective endings if it is used attributively before a noun, such as 'ein nervöser Mann' or 'eine nervöse Frau'. Understanding and utilizing nervös will significantly enhance your ability to express your feelings and empathize with others in German, bridging the gap between basic communication and genuine human connection. It is a word that truly captures the human experience of facing the unknown, making it an indispensable part of your German vocabulary arsenal.
Using the German adjective nervös correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function and the various contexts in which it naturally appears. As an adjective, nervös can be used both predicatively and attributively, and mastering both forms is crucial for any learner aiming for fluency. When used predicatively, it follows a linking verb, most commonly sein (to be), werden (to become), or wirken (to appear/seem). This is the most straightforward way to use the word and is highly common in everyday speech. For example, saying 'Ich bin nervös' (I am nervous) is a direct and effective way to communicate your emotional state.
Predicative Use
Used after verbs like sein, werden, or wirken without taking an adjective ending.

Warum bist du heute so nervös?

When used attributively, nervös is placed directly before a noun and must take the appropriate adjective ending based on the noun's gender, number, and case. This requires a solid grasp of German declension rules. For instance, you would say 'ein nervöser Schüler' (a nervous student - masculine nominative), 'eine nervöse Braut' (a nervous bride - feminine nominative), or 'ein nervöses Kind' (a nervous child - neuter nominative).
Attributive Use
Placed before a noun, requiring correct adjective declension based on gender, case, and number.

Der nervöse Kandidat betrat den Raum.

Furthermore, nervös is frequently used in combination with specific prepositions to indicate the cause of the nervousness. The most common preposition used in this context is 'vor' (before/in front of), which takes the dative case. For example, 'Ich bin nervös vor dem Vorstellungsgespräch' (I am nervous before the job interview).

Sie ist nervös vor der großen Reise.

Another important grammatical structure involves using nervös with the verb machen (to make). If something is causing you to be nervous, you can say 'Das macht mich nervös' (That makes me nervous). This is an excellent way to express external triggers for your anxiety.
Causative Use
Using the phrase 'jemanden nervös machen' to describe what is causing the anxiety.

Dieser laute Lärm macht mich total nervös.

In terms of register, nervös is perfectly acceptable in both formal and informal situations. You can use it when speaking to a close friend or when explaining your feelings to a doctor or a superior at work. It is a neutral, descriptive term that does not carry any slang or overly colloquial connotations.

Der Arzt bemerkte, dass der Patient sehr nervös wirkte.

By practicing these various structures—predicative, attributive, prepositional phrases, and causative constructions—you will be able to integrate nervös seamlessly into your active German vocabulary, allowing you to articulate your emotional landscape with precision and confidence in any situation.
The word nervös is ubiquitous in the German-speaking world, appearing in a vast array of contexts ranging from everyday casual conversations to highly formal professional and medical environments. Because the feeling of nervousness is a universal human experience, the vocabulary used to describe it is naturally widespread. One of the most common places you will hear nervös is in educational settings. Schools and universities are prime environments for anxiety, and you will frequently hear students expressing their apprehension before exams, presentations, or receiving grades. Phrases like 'Ich bin so nervös wegen der Mathearbeit' (I am so nervous about the math test) echo through the hallways of German educational institutions daily.
Educational Context
Frequently used by students and teachers to describe test anxiety or performance apprehension.

Vor der mündlichen Prüfung sind alle Studenten extrem nervös.

The professional world is another major domain where nervös is commonly used. Job interviews, important meetings, salary negotiations, and public speaking engagements are all classic triggers for professional anxiety. In a German office, it is not uncommon for a colleague to confide, 'Ich bin ein bisschen nervös vor der Präsentation heute Nachmittag' (I am a little nervous before the presentation this afternoon).
Professional Context
Used to describe anxiety related to career milestones, interviews, and corporate presentations.

Der neue Mitarbeiter war an seinem ersten Tag sichtlich nervös.

Beyond school and work, nervös is a staple in the realm of personal relationships and social events. First dates, weddings, meeting a partner's parents for the first time, or even hosting a large dinner party can induce nervousness. In these situations, expressing that you are nervös can be a charming way to break the ice and show vulnerability.

Beim ersten Date war er so nervös, dass er sein Glas umstieß.

You will also encounter the word nervös frequently in media and entertainment. In German movies, television series, and literature, characters are often described as nervös to build tension and convey their internal emotional state to the audience. Sports commentators also use the word to describe athletes before a crucial match or a penalty kick.
Media and Sports
Used by commentators and authors to build suspense and describe the high-pressure states of athletes or characters.

Der Torwart wirkte beim Elfmeter ungewöhnlich nervös.

Finally, in medical and psychological contexts, nervös is used to describe clinical anxiety or conditions related to the nervous system, such as a 'nervöser Magen' (nervous stomach) or a 'nervöser Zusammenbruch' (nervous breakdown).

Stress kann oft zu einem nervösen Magen führen.

In summary, whether you are navigating the halls of a university, stepping into a corporate boardroom, going on a romantic date, watching a thrilling football match, or visiting a doctor, the word nervös is an essential part of the German vocabulary that you will hear and use with great frequency.
When learning to use the German adjective nervös, learners frequently encounter a few specific pitfalls that can lead to confusion or unnatural-sounding sentences. Understanding and avoiding these common mistakes is crucial for achieving a higher level of fluency and ensuring that your intended meaning is accurately conveyed. The most prevalent mistake, particularly among English speakers, is confusing nervös with the German word nervig. While they share a similar root and look alike, their meanings are entirely different. Nervös means nervous or anxious, describing an internal emotional state. Nervig, on the other hand, means annoying or irritating, describing something or someone that causes frustration.
Nervös vs. Nervig
Nervös = nervous (internal state). Nervig = annoying (external quality).

Falsch: Er ist sehr nervig vor der Prüfung. (He is very annoying before the exam.) Richtig: Er ist sehr nervös vor der Prüfung.

Another common error involves the incorrect use of prepositions when explaining the cause of the nervousness. English speakers often try to translate 'nervous about' directly, leading to incorrect prepositional choices in German. The most natural preposition to use with nervös when referring to an upcoming event is vor (before/in front of), which requires the dative case.
Prepositional Errors
Using incorrect prepositions like 'über' instead of the correct 'vor' or 'wegen'.

Falsch: Ich bin nervös über das Interview. Richtig: Ich bin nervös vor dem Interview.

Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the causative construction 'to make someone nervous'. In English, we say 'It makes me nervous'. In German, the direct translation 'Es macht mich nervös' is perfectly correct and highly common. However, learners sometimes incorrectly use the verb tun (to do) or try to turn nervös into a verb.

Bitte hör auf zu wippen, das macht mich total nervös.

Adjective declension is another area where mistakes frequently occur. When nervös is used attributively before a noun, it must take the correct ending. Forgetting the ending or using the wrong one is a hallmark of beginner and intermediate German.
Declension Errors
Failing to apply the correct adjective endings based on gender, number, and case.

Falsch: Ein nervös Mann. Richtig: Ein nervöser Mann.

Finally, there is a subtle nuance between nervös and aufgeregt that learners often miss. While both can be translated as nervous or excited, aufgeregt often carries a positive connotation of eager anticipation (like a child before Christmas), whereas nervös is almost always negative or uncomfortable anxiety. Using nervös when you mean you are happily excited can confuse native speakers.

Ich bin nicht nur nervös, sondern auch ein bisschen aufgeregt auf die neue Stadt.

By being mindful of the difference between nervös and nervig, using the correct prepositions like vor, mastering the 'macht mich nervös' construction, applying proper adjective endings, and understanding the nuance compared to aufgeregt, you can avoid these common mistakes and use the word with native-like accuracy.
Expanding your emotional vocabulary in German involves understanding not just the word nervös, but also the rich tapestry of synonyms and related terms that can add nuance and precision to your communication. While nervös is an excellent, all-purpose word for feeling anxious or edgy, German offers several other adjectives that describe similar states of mind, each with its own subtle shade of meaning. One of the most common related words is aufgeregt. As mentioned previously, aufgeregt can mean nervous, but it frequently carries a positive connotation of excitement or thrill. If you are looking forward to a holiday, you are aufgeregt. If you are dreading a dentist appointment, you are nervös.
Aufgeregt
Means excited or agitated, often with a positive, eager anticipation, unlike the negative anxiety of nervös.

Die Kinder sind vor Weihnachten immer sehr aufgeregt, aber nicht nervös.

Another important synonym is ängstlich, which translates to fearful or afraid. While nervös describes a state of jittery anticipation, ängstlich implies a deeper, more profound sense of fear or dread. A person might be nervös before a speech, but ängstlich when walking alone in a dark alley.
Ängstlich
Translates to fearful or afraid, indicating a stronger sense of fear than mere nervousness.

Er war nicht nur nervös, sondern richtig ängstlich vor dem großen Hund.

For a more formal or clinical context, the word unruhig (restless) is often used. Unruhig describes a lack of peace or calm, often manifesting as an inability to sit still or sleep well. It is a slightly milder, more descriptive term than nervös.

Nachdem sie viel Kaffee getrunken hatte, fühlte sie sich sehr unruhig und nervös.

The term angespannt (tense) is also highly relevant. It describes a state of mental or physical tension, often resulting from stress or pressure. While nervös focuses on the jittery feeling, angespannt focuses on the tightness and pressure of the situation.
Angespannt
Means tense or strained, focusing on the pressure and tightness rather than the jitteriness.

Die Stimmung im Raum war sehr angespannt, und alle waren nervös.

Finally, colloquial terms like kribbelig (fidgety/jittery) or the phrase 'weiche Knie haben' (to have weak knees) are fantastic ways to express nervousness in a more colorful, native-like manner. Kribbelig perfectly captures the physical sensation of nervous energy, while having weak knees is a universal metaphor for fear and anxiety.

Ich bin total kribbelig und nervös, weil ich gleich auf die Bühne muss.

By incorporating words like aufgeregt, ängstlich, unruhig, angespannt, and kribbelig into your vocabulary alongside nervös, you will be able to express the exact flavor of your emotional state with incredible precision, making your German sound much more sophisticated and natural.

How Formal Is It?

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Adjective declension (ein nervöser Mann)

Prepositions with the dative case (vor dem Test)

Subordinate clauses with 'weil' (weil ich nervös bin)

Causative verbs (etwas macht mich nervös)

Comparative and superlative forms (nervöser, am nervösesten)

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Exemples par niveau

1

Ich bin nervös.

I am nervous.

Basic predicative use with the verb 'sein'.

2

Bist du nervös?

Are you nervous?

Question format, verb in the first position.

3

Er ist sehr nervös.

He is very nervous.

Use of the intensifier 'sehr'.

4

Wir sind nicht nervös.

We are not nervous.

Negation with 'nicht'.

5

Der Hund ist nervös.

The dog is nervous.

Using a noun as the subject.

6

Warum bist du nervös?

Why are you nervous?

W-question word 'warum'.

7

Sie ist ein bisschen nervös.

She is a little nervous.

Use of 'ein bisschen' to soften the adjective.

8

Ich bin heute nervös.

I am nervous today.

Adding a temporal adverb 'heute'.

1

Ich bin nervös vor dem Test.

I am nervous before the test.

Use of preposition 'vor' + dative.

2

Er ist nervös, weil er einen Termin hat.

He is nervous because he has an appointment.

Subordinate clause with 'weil', verb at the end.

3

Das macht mich sehr nervös.

That makes me very nervous.

Causative construction with 'machen'.

4

Ein nervöser Mann wartet draußen.

A nervous man is waiting outside.

Attributive use, masculine nominative ending '-er'.

5

Bist du nervös wegen der Reise?

Are you nervous because of the trip?

Use of preposition 'wegen'.

6

Sie sieht heute sehr nervös aus.

She looks very nervous today.

Separable verb 'aussehen' with the adjective.

7

Ich werde immer nervös, wenn ich fliege.

I always get nervous when I fly.

Use of 'werden' for a change of state and 'wenn' clause.

8

Bitte sei nicht so nervös!

Please don't be so nervous!

Imperative form of 'sein'.

1

Obwohl er gut vorbereitet war, war er trotzdem nervös.

Although he was well prepared, he was still nervous.

Concessive clause with 'obwohl' and adverb 'trotzdem'.

2

Die ständige Ungewissheit macht die Mitarbeiter zunehmend nervös.

The constant uncertainty is making the employees increasingly nervous.

Advanced vocabulary and the adverb 'zunehmend'.

3

Ich versuche, meine nervöse Energie in Sport umzuwandeln.

I try to channel my nervous energy into sports.

Infinitive clause with 'zu' and attributive adjective.

4

Es ist völlig normal, vor einem Vorstellungsgespräch nervös zu sein.

It is completely normal to be nervous before a job interview.

Impersonal 'es ist' construction with an infinitive phrase.

5

Ihre nervöse Art hat sich auf die ganze Gruppe übertragen.

Her nervous manner transferred to the whole group.

Reflexive verb 'sich übertragen' and attributive adjective.

6

Er sprach mit einer zittrigen, nervösen Stimme.

He spoke with a trembling, nervous voice.

Multiple attributive adjectives with dative ending '-en'.

7

Je näher der Termin rückte, desto nervöser wurde sie.

The closer the appointment came, the more nervous she became.

Comparative structure 'je... desto...'.

8

Ich war noch nie in meinem Leben so nervös wie gestern.

I have never been as nervous in my life as I was yesterday.

Comparison using 'so... wie' and past tense.

1

Die anhaltende Inflation sorgt für eine spürbar nervöse Stimmung an den Finanzmärkten.

The persistent inflation is causing a noticeably nervous mood in the financial markets.

Abstract noun usage and complex prepositional phrase.

2

Anstatt nervös zu reagieren, sollten wir die Situation sachlich analysieren.

Instead of reacting nervously, we should analyze the situation objectively.

Infinitive clause with 'anstatt... zu'.

3

Ihm war die Nervosität deutlich anzumerken, als er das Podium betrat.

His nervousness was clearly noticeable as he stepped onto the podium.

Passive-like construction 'anzumerken sein' and noun form 'Nervosität'.

4

Hätte ich gewusst, wie schwer die Prüfung wird, wäre ich noch viel nervöser gewesen.

Had I known how difficult the exam would be, I would have been much more nervous.

Konjunktiv II (Subjunctive II) in the past for hypothetical situations.

5

Ihre ständigen Unterbrechungen machen mich allmählich wirklich nervös.

Her constant interruptions are gradually making me really nervous.

Use of adverbs 'allmählich' and 'wirklich' to modify the causative phrase.

6

Er versuchte, seine nervösen Ticks vor dem Publikum zu verbergen.

He tried to hide his nervous tics from the audience.

Attributive use with a specific noun 'Ticks'.

7

Die nervenaufreibende Wartezeit machte selbst die erfahrensten Bewerber nervös.

The nerve-wracking waiting time made even the most experienced applicants nervous.

Complex subject and use of 'selbst' (even).

8

Lass dich von seinen provokanten Bemerkungen nicht nervös machen.

Don't let his provocative remarks make you nervous.

Imperative with 'lassen' and a causative construction.

1

Die geopolitischen Spannungen führen zu einer latent nervösen Grundhaltung in der Bevölkerung.

The geopolitical tensions are leading to a latently nervous underlying attitude in the population.

Highly formal vocabulary and complex attributive adjectives.

2

Es bedarf einer gewissen mentalen Stärke, in solch prekären Situationen nicht nervös zu agieren.

It requires a certain mental strength not to act nervously in such precarious situations.

Formal verb 'bedürfen' with genitive and infinitive construction.

3

Seine fahrigen Bewegungen offenbarten eine tief sitzende, fast schon pathologische Nervosität.

His erratic movements revealed a deep-seated, almost pathological nervousness.

Advanced synonyms and descriptive adjectives.

4

Die Märkte reagierten äußerst nervös auf die unvorhergesehene Zinserhöhung der Zentralbank.

The markets reacted extremely nervously to the central bank's unforeseen interest rate hike.

Adverbial use of 'nervös' in an economic context.

5

Trotz ihrer nach außen hin zur Schau gestellten Souveränität war sie innerlich zutiefst nervös.

Despite her outwardly displayed confidence, she was deeply nervous inside.

Complex concessive phrase with 'trotz' and extended participles.

6

Ein nervöses Zucken um seine Mundwinkel verriet, dass er log.

A nervous twitch around the corners of his mouth revealed that he was lying.

Descriptive narrative style with a 'dass' clause.

7

Die ständige Erreichbarkeit durch Smartphones fördert eine chronisch nervöse Gesellschaft.

Constant accessibility via smartphones promotes a chronically nervous society.

Sociological context and advanced vocabulary.

8

Er überspielte seine nervöse Anspannung mit aufgesetzter Fröhlichkeit.

He masked his nervous tension with forced cheerfulness.

Advanced verb 'überspielen' and complex noun phrases.

1

In Kafkas Werken manifestiert sich die existenzielle Angst oft in einer allgegenwärtigen, lähmenden Nervosität der Protagonisten.

In Kafka's works, existential angst often manifests itself in an omnipresent, paralyzing nervousness of the protagonists.

Literary analysis context, highly complex sentence structure.

2

Die von den Medien geschürte Hysterie kulminierte in einem nervösen Aktionismus der politischen Entscheidungsträger.

The hysteria stoked by the media culminated in a nervous, frantic activism by political decision-makers.

Advanced vocabulary (Aktionismus, kulminieren) and passive participles.

3

Man darf die nervöse Unruhe der Epoche nicht isoliert betrachten, sondern muss sie in ihren sozioökonomischen Kontext einbetten.

One must not view the nervous unrest of the epoch in isolation, but must embed it in its socioeconomic context.

Academic register, modal verbs, and complex syntax.

4

Ihre Prosa zeichnet sich durch einen stakkatoartigen, fast schon nervösen Rhythmus aus, der die innere Zerrissenheit der Figuren widerspiegelt.

Her prose is characterized by a staccato-like, almost nervous rhythm that reflects the inner turmoil of the characters.

Literary criticism vocabulary and relative clauses.

5

Das ständige Changieren zwischen Euphorie und nervöser Erschöpfung ist symptomatisch für unsere Leistungsgesellschaft.

The constant shifting between euphoria and nervous exhaustion is symptomatic of our meritocracy.

Nominalized infinitive 'Changieren' and sociological terms.

6

Er verfiel in ein nervöses Stammeln, als er mit den unumstößlichen Fakten konfrontiert wurde.

He fell into a nervous stammering when confronted with the irrefutable facts.

Descriptive verb 'verfallen in' and passive voice in a temporal clause.

7

Die Architektur des Gebäudes mit ihren asymmetrischen Linien verströmt eine seltsam nervöse Energie.

The architecture of the building with its asymmetrical lines exudes a strangely nervous energy.

Artistic/architectural description using 'nervös' metaphorically.

8

Die diplomatischen Bemühungen scheiterten letztlich an der nervösen Dünnhäutigkeit beider Verhandlungspartner.

The diplomatic efforts ultimately failed due to the nervous thin-skinnedness of both negotiating partners.

Advanced metaphorical noun 'Dünnhäutigkeit' combined with the adjective.

Collocations courantes

sehr nervös
ein bisschen nervös
total nervös
nervös machen
nervös werden
nervös wirken
nervös sein
leicht nervös
sichtlich nervös
extrem nervös

Phrases Courantes

Ich bin nervös.
Das macht mich nervös.
Sei nicht nervös!
Warum bist du so nervös?
Er wird schnell nervös.
Ich bin nervös vor der Prüfung.
Sie machte einen nervösen Eindruck.
Ich bin ein bisschen nervös.
Mach mich nicht nervös!
Er ist sichtlich nervös.

Souvent confondu avec

nervös vs nervig (annoying)

nervös vs aufgeregt (excited)

nervös vs ängstlich (fearful)

Expressions idiomatiques

"weiche Knie haben"
"auf heißen Kohlen sitzen"
"Hummeln im Hintern haben"
"Nervenflattern haben"
"ein Nervenbündel sein"
"Schmetterlinge im Bauch haben (sometimes used for nervous excitement)"
"die Wände hochgehen"
"ins Schwitzen kommen"
"kein Auge zutun"
"auf Nadeln sitzen"

Facile à confondre

nervös vs

nervös vs

nervös vs

nervös vs

nervös vs

Structures de phrases

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Comment l'utiliser

nuance

Carries a slightly more negative/uncomfortable connotation than 'aufgeregt'.

general

Nervös is the standard, most versatile word for nervous in German.

regional

Understood universally across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Erreurs courantes
  • Confusing 'nervös' (nervous) with 'nervig' (annoying).
  • Using the preposition 'über' instead of 'vor' (e.g., saying 'nervös über' instead of 'nervös vor').
  • Using the verb 'haben' instead of 'sein' (e.g., saying 'Ich habe nervös').
  • Using 'nervös' to describe happy excitement instead of 'aufgeregt'.
  • Forgetting to add adjective endings when used before a noun (e.g., saying 'ein nervös Mann').

Astuces

Use 'sein' not 'haben'

Always use the verb 'sein' (to be) with nervös. Say 'Ich bin nervös'. Never say 'Ich habe nervös'. This is a common direct translation error from languages that use 'have' for feelings.

Nervös vs. Nervig

Never confuse nervös with nervig. Nervös means you feel anxious. Nervig means something is annoying. Saying 'Ich bin nervig' means you are an annoying person!

Use 'vor' for upcoming events

When you are nervous about something in the future, use 'vor' + Dative. 'Ich bin nervös vor dem Test'. Do not use 'über' (about).

Master the 'ö'

The 'ö' is crucial. Round your lips for 'O' and say 'E'. Mispronouncing it can make the word hard to understand. Practice it in front of a mirror.

Use 'machen' for causes

If something causes your anxiety, use 'machen'. 'Das macht mich nervös' (That makes me nervous). It is very natural and commonly used.

Not for happy excitement

Do not use nervös if you are excited for a party or vacation. Use 'aufgeregt' instead. Nervös is for uncomfortable stress.

Remember the endings

When placing nervös before a noun, you must add the correct ending. 'Ein nervöser Hund' (masculine), 'eine nervöse Katze' (feminine).

Boost the meaning

Add words like 'sehr', 'total', or 'ein bisschen' to show exactly how nervous you are. 'Ich bin ein bisschen nervös' is a great phrase.

Learn 'weiche Knie'

To sound like a native, use the idiom 'weiche Knie haben' (to have weak knees) instead of just saying nervös. It adds great color to your German.

It's okay to say it

In Germany, it is perfectly fine to admit you are nervös before a big task. It shows you care and are taking it seriously. Don't be afraid to use it.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of your NERVES making you NERVÖS. The words look and sound very similar, making it an easy cognate to remember.

Origine du mot

Borrowed from Latin 'nervosus' (sinewy, vigorous), which later evolved in French ('nerveux') and German to describe the state of the nervous system.

Contexte culturel

On a first date, saying 'Ich bin ein bisschen nervös' is considered endearing and honest.

Test anxiety (Prüfungsangst) is a widely recognized concept in the German education system, and being nervös is the standard way to describe it.

In professional settings, admitting you are slightly nervös before a big presentation can humanize you, but excessive nervousness might be viewed as a lack of preparation.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"Bist du oft nervös vor Prüfungen?"

"Was machst du, wenn du nervös bist?"

"Wann warst du das letzte Mal richtig nervös?"

"Macht dich Fliegen nervös?"

"Wie beruhigst du dich, wenn du nervös bist?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du extrem nervös warst.

Was sind die körperlichen Symptome, wenn du nervös bist?

Glaubst du, dass ein bisschen Nervosität gut für die Leistung ist?

Wie unterscheidet sich 'nervös sein' von 'aufgeregt sein' für dich?

Schreibe einen Brief an dein nervöses Ich vor einem wichtigen Ereignis.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Nervös means nervous or anxious, describing how you feel. Nervig means annoying or irritating, describing something or someone else. If you say 'Ich bin nervig', you are saying 'I am annoying'. If you say 'Ich bin nervös', you are saying 'I am nervous'. It is a very common mistake for beginners. Always remember: nervös is for your feelings, nervig is for things that bother you.

Generally, no. Nervös is used for uncomfortable anxiety or stress. If you are happily excited, like before a vacation or a party, you should use the word 'aufgeregt'. Using nervös for a happy event sounds strange to German speakers. Save nervös for exams, interviews, and stressful situations. Use aufgeregt for fun anticipation.

The most common preposition is 'vor' (before/in front of). You use it with the dative case. For example, 'Ich bin nervös vor der Prüfung' (I am nervous before the exam). You can also use 'wegen' (because of) with the genitive or dative case. Do not use 'über' (about) like you would in English.

You use the verb 'machen' (to make). The phrase is 'Das macht mich nervös'. It is a direct translation from English and is perfectly natural in German. You can replace 'Das' with specific things, like 'Der Lärm macht mich nervös' (The noise makes me nervous). Do not use the verb 'tun'.

The 'ö' sound does not exist in English. To make it, shape your lips like you are going to say the letter 'O'. While keeping your lips in that round shape, try to say the letter 'E' (like in 'bed'). It should sound similar to the 'i' in the English word 'bird' or 'sir', but more rounded. Practice it slowly.

Nervös is completely neutral. You can use it in highly formal situations, like talking to a doctor or a boss. You can also use it in very informal situations, like talking to your best friend. It fits perfectly into any register. There is no need to find a more formal synonym for professional settings.

The noun form is 'die Nervosität'. It means nervousness. It is a feminine noun. You might hear it in sentences like 'Seine Nervosität war offensichtlich' (His nervousness was obvious). It is a good word to know for B1 and B2 levels.

No, that is incorrect. In German, you 'are' nervous, you do not 'have' nervous. You must use the verb 'sein' (to be). The correct phrase is 'Ich bin nervös'. You can say 'Ich habe Angst' (I have fear), but never 'Ich habe nervös'.

You can use intensifiers before the adjective. Common ones are 'sehr' (very), 'total' (totally), 'extrem' (extremely), or 'wahnsinnig' (incredibly). For example, 'Ich bin total nervös' means 'I am totally nervous'. This is very common in spoken German.

The most common opposites are 'ruhig' (calm) or 'entspannt' (relaxed). If someone is nervous, you might tell them 'Bleib ruhig' (Stay calm) or 'Entspann dich' (Relax). Another good antonym is 'gelassen', which means serene or composed.

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