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gut gelaunt

A2 adjective #3,500 most common 16 min read

gut gelaunt

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips gut gelaunt in 30 Seconds

Explanation gut gelaunt in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'gut gelaunt' is an excellent phrase to learn because it helps you describe people and feelings in a simple way. You can use it just like 'happy' in English. At this stage, you should focus on using it with the verb 'sein' (to be). For example: 'Ich bin gut gelaunt' (I am in a good mood) or 'Du bist gut gelaunt' (You are in a good mood). It is a compound word, but you don't need to worry about the grammar of the parts yet. Just remember it as one unit that means 'cheerful.' It is very common to use this when you meet friends or talk about your family. If you see someone smiling, you can say 'Er ist gut gelaunt.' It's a polite and positive thing to say. You might also hear it in very simple stories or in your first German lessons when the teacher asks how everyone is doing. Try to remember that 'gut' means good and 'gelaunt' relates to mood. Even if you don't know many other words, saying 'gut gelaunt' makes you sound much more natural than just saying 'gut.' It shows you are learning how Germans actually talk about their feelings. Don't worry about changing the ending of the word yet; just use it after 'ist' or 'bin' and you will be correct 90% of the time. This word is a great 'building block' for your German vocabulary because it is used every single day in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It's a friendly word that will help you make a good first impression when you speak German.

At the A2 level, you can start to use 'gut gelaunt' in slightly more complex ways. You should be able to explain *why* someone is in a good mood. For example, 'Ich bin gut gelaunt, weil heute die Sonne scheint' (I am in a good mood because the sun is shining today). Notice how the word 'weil' moves the verb 'scheint' to the end. You also start to learn about adjective endings at this level. While you mostly use 'gut gelaunt' after 'sein' (predicative), you might see it before a noun (attributive), like 'ein gut gelaunter Junge.' Here, the ending '-er' is added because 'Junge' is masculine. At A2, you should also know the opposite: 'schlecht gelaunt' (in a bad mood). This allows you to describe a wider range of emotions. You will encounter 'gut gelaunt' in everyday dialogues, such as at work or in a restaurant. It's a key word for describing people's characters in simple biographies or descriptions. You might also start using adverbs to modify it, like 'sehr gut gelaunt' (very in a good mood) or 'nicht gut gelaunt' (not in a good mood). This level is about expanding your ability to describe the world around you, and 'gut gelaunt' is a perfect tool for that. It's also a common word in A2 listening exams, where you might have to identify how a person in a recording is feeling. Practice saying it with a smile—the pronunciation is quite straightforward, and it's a word that always brings a positive vibe to a conversation.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'gut gelaunt' fluently in a variety of sentence structures. You should be comfortable using it in subordinate clauses with connectors like 'obwohl' (although), 'dass' (that), and 'wenn' (if). For example: 'Obwohl es viel Arbeit gab, blieb das Team gut gelaunt' (Although there was a lot of work, the team stayed in a good mood). This shows a higher level of grammatical control. You should also be aware of the difference between 'gut gelaunt sein' and the noun phrase 'gute Laune haben.' At B1, you can use both interchangeably to add variety to your speech. You will likely use 'gut gelaunt' in written assignments, such as letters to friends or short essays about your hobbies. It’s also a useful word for the speaking part of the B1 exam, especially when describing pictures or talking about social experiences. You might start to notice more nuanced synonyms like 'vergnügt' or 'heiter' in texts you read. Understanding that 'gut gelaunt' is the standard, everyday choice while these other words add specific 'color' is a key B1 skill. You should also be able to use it in the past tense: 'Gestern war ich den ganzen Tag gut gelaunt.' This level is about moving from simple descriptions to more fluid storytelling and expressing opinions, and being able to describe the 'Stimmung' (atmosphere) using 'gut gelaunt' is essential for that.

At the B2 level, your use of 'gut gelaunt' should be nuanced and precise. You should understand how it fits into the broader spectrum of German emotional vocabulary. You might use it to describe the 'Betriebsklima' (workplace atmosphere) or the 'Grundstimmung' (general mood) of a group. At this level, you can handle complex attributive uses, such as 'Die wegen des Erfolgs gut gelaunten Mitarbeiter feierten ausgiebig' (The employees, who were in a good mood because of the success, celebrated extensively). This involves using 'gut gelaunt' as part of an extended adjective phrase. You should also be able to discuss the concept of 'Laune' in a more abstract way. For instance, why do people in certain cultures seem more 'gut gelaunt' than others? You will encounter 'gut gelaunt' in more sophisticated media, like newspaper features or podcasts, where it might be used ironically or to contrast with more serious topics. You should also be familiar with more advanced synonyms like 'glänzend aufgelegt' or 'bestens disponiert.' At B2, you are not just using the word; you are choosing it over others because it fits the register and the specific nuance you want to convey. You should also be aware of how 'gut gelaunt' is used in professional contexts, such as in management or psychology-related texts, to describe positive emotional states and their impact on productivity. Your ability to use the word in debate and discussion, for example, when talking about the importance of a positive attitude in life, shows your growing mastery of the language.

At the C1 level, 'gut gelaunt' is a word you use with effortless precision, but you also begin to analyze its socio-linguistic functions. You understand that 'gut gelaunt' can sometimes be a social mask or a professional requirement ('Professionalität bedeutet, auch dann gut gelaunt zu wirken, wenn man es nicht ist'). You can use the word in high-level written German, such as in literary analysis or formal reports, where you might discuss the 'heiter-gutgelaunte Grundton' of a novel. You are also aware of the etymological roots of 'Laune' and how it relates to historical concepts of temperament. In C1, you might explore the subtle differences between 'gut gelaunt' and 'euphorisch' in a psychological context, or how 'gut gelaunt' functions as a 'Social Lubricant' in German-speaking societies. You can use the word in complex rhetorical structures, perhaps using it as a starting point for a more profound observation about human nature. Your vocabulary includes very specific alternatives like 'ausgelassen' (boisterous), 'weinselig' (jovial from wine), or 'unbeschwert' (carefree). You understand the pragmatic implications of the word—for example, how saying 'Er scheint heute besonders gut gelaunt zu sein' can be a subtle way of commenting on someone's unusual behavior. At this level, you are capable of using the word and its variations to express irony, sarcasm, or deep empathy, reflecting a near-native command of the emotional landscape of the German language.

At the C2 level, 'gut gelaunt' is part of a vast repertoire of expressions for emotional states. You can use it with absolute stylistic confidence in any context, from academic lectures to creative writing. You might explore the philosophical implications of 'gut gelaunt sein' in the context of existentialism or positive psychology. You are capable of identifying and using the most obscure synonyms and related idioms, such as 'auf Wolke sieben schweben' or 'wie auf Eiern gehen' (when someone's good mood is fragile). In C2, you can analyze the use of 'gut gelaunt' in classical German literature (like Goethe or Schiller) and how the concept of 'Laune' has evolved over centuries. You understand the cultural 'scripts' associated with being 'gut gelaunt' in different German-speaking regions—for example, the 'Rheinische Frohnatur' (the naturally cheerful nature of people from the Rhineland). You can produce complex texts where 'gut gelaunt' is used to create specific atmospheric effects or to characterize personas with great subtlety. You are also able to critique the use of such terms in advertising and political discourse, recognizing when 'gut gelaunt' is being used to manipulate or obscure reality. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for sophisticated cultural and psychological expression, used with a deep understanding of its history, its connotations, and its power to shape social reality.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

gut gelaunt in 30 Seconds

Gut gelaunt means being in a good mood or cheerful. It describes a temporary emotional state rather than a permanent personality trait or deep life-long happiness.
Grammatically, it is a compound adjective used mostly with the verb 'sein'. When placed before a noun, it must be declined like any other German adjective.
It is a highly positive and socially valuable term in German culture, often used to describe colleagues, friends, or the general atmosphere of an event or place.
Common synonyms include 'fröhlich' and 'gut drauf', while the direct antonym is 'schlecht gelaunt'. It is distinct from 'glücklich', which implies a more profound sense of joy.

The German expression gut gelaunt is a compound adjective that literally translates to 'well-mooded' or 'in a good mood.' It is one of the most common ways to describe a person's temporary emotional state in German-speaking cultures. Unlike the word 'glücklich,' which often implies a deeper, more permanent state of happiness or life satisfaction, gut gelaunt refers specifically to the immediate feeling of cheerfulness, optimism, and positive energy that one might feel upon waking up on a sunny day or receiving good news. In the German language, the concept of 'Laune' (mood) is central to daily social interactions. You will often hear people asking 'Bist du gut gelaunt?' as a way to gauge someone's readiness for a task or a conversation. It is a highly versatile term used in both formal and informal settings, from professional office environments to casual family breakfasts. The term is derived from the noun 'Laune,' which historically connects to the phases of the moon (Latin: luna), suggesting that moods, like the moon, are subject to change and fluctuation. Therefore, being gut gelaunt is seen as a pleasant but potentially fleeting state, making it all the more valuable in social contexts.

Emotional Nuance: It suggests a lightness of being and a readiness to engage positively with others. It is less intense than 'begeistert' (enthusiastic) but more active than 'zufrieden' (content).

Obwohl es Montag ist, ist unser Chef heute erstaunlich gut gelaunt.

In a professional context, describing a colleague as gut gelaunt can be a way to signal that now is a good time to ask for a favor or present a new idea. Germans value 'Sachlichkeit' (objectivity), but they are also very aware of the 'Betriebsklima' (work atmosphere). A person who is consistently gut gelaunt is often seen as a 'Teamplayer' because their positive energy is contagious. However, it is important to distinguish this from 'oberflächlich' (superficial) happiness. Being gut gelaunt is viewed as a genuine reflection of one's current disposition. Interestingly, the phrase is often used with modifiers like 'ausgesprochen' (distinctly) or 'besonders' (especially) to emphasize the degree of cheerfulness. When you enter a room and find everyone laughing, you might observe, 'Hier sind ja alle richtig gut gelaunt!' which validates the positive atmosphere of the group.

Social Context: In German culture, being 'gut gelaunt' at the breakfast table is often contrasted with being a 'Morgenmuffel' (someone who is grumpy in the morning).

Nach dem Urlaub kam sie total gut gelaunt ins Büro zurück.

Furthermore, the expression is frequently used in the media, particularly in weather reports or lifestyle segments. A weather presenter might say that the upcoming sunshine will ensure that people are gut gelaunt over the weekend. This connection between external factors (like weather or success) and internal state is a common theme in German discourse. It is also a safe, polite topic of conversation. If you notice someone is gut gelaunt, commenting on it is seen as a friendly compliment that acknowledges their positive presence without being overly intrusive into their private life.

Comparative Usage: Compared to 'heiter' (which sounds a bit more literary or refers to weather), 'gut gelaunt' is the standard everyday term for being in a good mood.

Ein gut gelaunter Kellner macht den Restaurantbesuch viel angenehmer.

Wir saßen gut gelaunt am Lagerfeuer und sangen Lieder.

Using gut gelaunt correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as an adjective that can function both predicatively and attributively. Predicatively, it follows verbs like 'sein' (to be), 'bleiben' (to stay), or 'wirken' (to seem). This is the most common usage. For example, 'Ich bin heute gut gelaunt' (I am in a good mood today). In this position, the adjective does not take any endings, regardless of the gender or number of the subject. This makes it very accessible for learners at the A2 level. However, when used attributively—that is, before a noun—it must be declined to match the gender, case, and number of the noun it describes. For instance, 'Ein gut gelaunter Vater' (A good-humored father) or 'Die gut gelaunte Lehrerin' (The cheerful teacher). Notice how the ending changes from -er to -e based on the gender of the noun.

Predicative Construction: Subject + Verb (sein/wirken) + gut gelaunt. Example: 'Die Kinder sind gut gelaunt.'

Trotz der Verspätung blieb der Busfahrer gut gelaunt.

One interesting aspect of gut gelaunt is how it interacts with adverbs of degree. You can be 'extrem gut gelaunt,' 'einigermaßen gut gelaunt' (somewhat in a good mood), or 'nicht besonders gut gelaunt' (not particularly in a good mood). This flexibility allows for precise communication of emotional states. When constructing more complex sentences at the B1 or B2 level, gut gelaunt often appears in subordinate clauses. For example, 'Weil er gut gelaunt war, spendierte er allen ein Eis' (Because he was in a good mood, he treated everyone to an ice cream). In this case, the verb 'war' moves to the end of the clause, but gut gelaunt remains intact as a unit. It is also frequently used in the 'Partizipialattribut' construction, which is more common in written German: 'Der gut gelaunt pfeifende Postbote' (The mailman whistling in a good mood).

Attributive Declension: The phrase 'ein gut gelaunter Gast' uses the mixed declension ending '-er' for masculine nominative.

Wir haben gestern einen gut gelaunten Abend mit Freunden verbracht.

Another common pattern is using the word to describe the result of an action. For example, 'Musik zu hören macht mich immer gut gelaunt' (Listening to music always makes me in a good mood). Here, the phrase functions as an object complement. Learners should also be aware of its negation. While 'schlecht gelaunt' is the direct antonym, using 'nicht gut gelaunt' is a softer, more indirect way of saying someone is in a bad mood, often used to be polite or to indicate a neutral state that is leaning toward the negative. In storytelling, gut gelaunt serves as a perfect descriptive tool to set the scene: 'Die Sonne schien, und die Wanderer machten sich gut gelaunt auf den Weg' (The sun was shining, and the hikers set off in a good mood). This adds a layer of emotional atmosphere to the narrative without requiring complex psychological descriptions.

Negative Contrast: If someone is 'nicht gut gelaunt,' they might be 'genervt' (annoyed) or simply 'müde' (tired).

Egal was passiert, er scheint immer gut gelaunt zu sein.

Sie begrüßte uns mit einem gut gelaunten Lächeln.

In the real world, gut gelaunt is a staple of everyday German conversation. You will hear it most frequently in the morning, during the typical 'Smalltalk' that occurs at the coffee machine in an office or over the garden fence with a neighbor. A common observation might be: 'Mensch, du bist ja heute gut gelaunt! Hast du im Lotto gewonnen?' (Man, you're in a good mood today! Did you win the lottery?). This highlights how the word is used to comment on a noticeable change in someone's demeanor. In German retail and service industries, being gut gelaunt is an informal requirement for many jobs. You might hear customers praising a shop assistant by saying, 'Die Verkäuferin war so gut gelaunt, das hat mir den Tag versüßt' (The saleswoman was in such a good mood, it sweetened my day). This usage reinforces the social value placed on maintaining a positive public face.

The Office Setting: Colleagues use it to check the 'vibe' before starting a meeting: 'Ist der Chef heute gut gelaunt?'

Wenn die Sonne scheint, sind die Leute in der Stadt viel gut gelaunter.

Radio hosts and television presenters are almost professionally gut gelaunt. If you tune into a German morning show ('Morgenmagazin'), the presenters will often use the term to describe the atmosphere they hope to create for their viewers. You might hear: 'Wir starten gut gelaunt in den neuen Tag!' (We're starting the new day in a good mood!). This is a classic 'Floskel' (filler phrase) used to build rapport with the audience. Similarly, in sports commentary, if a team is playing with confidence and flair, the commentator might describe them as playing 'gut gelaunt' or 'spielfreudig.' This metaphorical use suggests that their internal state of mind is translating into their physical performance on the field. It’s also very common in travel advertisements, where images of happy vacationers are accompanied by text like 'Gut gelaunt in den Sommerurlaub' (In a good mood into your summer vacation).

Family Life: Parents might use it to describe their children: 'Die Kinder sind nach dem Spielplatzbesuch richtig gut gelaunt.'

Ein gut gelauntes Publikum ist das Wichtigste für einen Komiker.

In more intimate settings, the phrase can be used to describe the success of a social gathering. After a party, one might say, 'Es war ein toller Abend, alle Gäste waren extrem gut gelaunt.' Here, it serves as a measure of the event's quality. You will also find it in literature and journalism to quickly sketch a character's disposition. A journalist might describe a politician arriving at a press conference as 'gut gelaunt und siegessicher' (in a good mood and confident of victory), which gives the reader an immediate sense of the political climate. Even in social media, hashtags like #gutgelaunt or #gutelaune are frequently used alongside photos of sunsets, brunch, or outings with friends, showing that the term has successfully transitioned into the digital age as a universal signifier of positivity.

The Opposite: If someone is 'schlecht gelaunt,' you might hear colleagues whispering: 'Vorsicht, er ist heute gar nicht gut gelaunt!'

Das Team startete gut gelaunt in die zweite Halbzeit.

Mit einem gut gelaunten 'Guten Morgen' fing der Tag an.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using gut gelaunt is confusing the adjective with the noun phrase 'gute Laune haben.' While they mean essentially the same thing, their grammatical structures are different. You say 'Ich bin gut gelaunt' (adjective) BUT 'Ich habe gute Laune' (noun). Using 'Ich habe gut gelaunt' is incorrect because 'gut gelaunt' is not a thing you can possess, but a state you are in. Similarly, 'Ich bin gute Laune' is a literal translation of 'I am good mood,' which is grammatically broken in German. Another common error involves the placement of the word 'gut.' In English, we might say 'He is in a very good mood.' In German, the 'gut' is already part of the compound adjective. If you want to say 'very,' you should say 'sehr gut gelaunt' or 'bestens gelaunt.' Some learners try to say 'in einer guten Laune sein,' which is a direct translation from English, but it sounds unnatural compared to the idiomatic 'gut gelaunt sein.'

Structure Confusion: Mistake: 'Ich habe gut gelaunt.' Correct: 'Ich bin gut gelaunt' or 'Ich habe gute Laune.'

Falsch: Er ist in einer gut gelaunten Stimmung. Richtig: Er ist einfach gut gelaunt.

Another subtle mistake occurs with adjective endings when gut gelaunt is used attributively. Because it is a compound, learners often forget to decline the whole unit. For example, 'Ein gut gelaunter Mann' is correct, but some might say 'Ein gut gelaunte Mann,' forgetting that masculine nominative requires the '-er' ending. Furthermore, there is a tendency to use 'gut gelaunt' to describe things that cannot have moods. You can have a 'gut gelaunte Person,' but you cannot usually have a 'gut gelauntes Wetter.' Instead, the weather *causes* people to be 'gut gelaunt.' For weather, use 'schönes Wetter' or 'heiteres Wetter.' There is also the issue of intensity. Learners often use 'glücklich' when they really mean 'gut gelaunt.' If you are happy because you just had a nice cup of coffee, 'gut gelaunt' is the appropriate term. 'Glücklich' is reserved for more profound life events, like getting married or finding your purpose in life.

Translation Trap: Avoid 'Ich bin in guter Laune.' Although understandable, 'Ich bin gut gelaunt' is the preferred idiomatic expression.

Falsch: Die gut gelaunte Nachricht. Richtig: Die erfreuliche Nachricht.

Lastly, be careful with the word order in subordinate clauses. A common mistake is: 'Ich weiß nicht, warum er ist gut gelaunt.' The correct B1-level structure must be: 'Ich weiß nicht, warum er gut gelaunt ist.' The verb 'ist' must move to the very end. Also, avoid using 'gut gelaunt' as a verb. There is no verb 'gelaunen.' You must always use a helping verb like 'sein.' Understanding these nuances will help you sound much more like a native speaker. Remember that gut gelaunt is a state of being, not an action you perform. By keeping these distinctions in mind—adjective vs. noun phrase, predicative vs. attributive, and state vs. action—you will avoid the most common pitfalls that trip up English speakers when they try to express cheerfulness in German.

Intensity Confusion: Don't say 'sehr gut gelaunt' if you are ecstatic. Use 'bestens gelaunt' or 'himmelhoch jauchzend' for extreme joy.

Falsch: Er gut gelaunt heute. Richtig: Er ist heute gut gelaunt.

Falsch: Ein gut gelaunt Kind. Richtig: Ein gut gelauntes Kind.

While gut gelaunt is the most versatile term for being in a good mood, the German language offers a rich palette of alternatives that convey different shades of positivity. One of the closest synonyms is fröhlich. While 'gut gelaunt' describes a temporary state, 'fröhlich' often describes a person's general character or a more outward expression of joy, such as singing or laughing. Another common alternative is heiter. This word has a slightly more sophisticated or literary feel and is also used to describe clear, sunny weather. If someone is not just in a good mood but actively enjoying themselves, you might use vergnügt. This word often implies a sense of playful contentment, like a child playing with a new toy. For a more intense version of being in a good mood, Germans use bestens gelaunt or glänzend aufgelegt. These phrases suggest that the person is at the peak of their spirits and ready to take on anything.

Comparison: gut gelaunt vs. fröhlich: 'Gut gelaunt' is the state you are in after a good breakfast; 'fröhlich' is the way you dance at a wedding.

Der Comedian war heute Abend glänzend aufgelegt und brachte alle zum Lachen.

In more informal or slang contexts, you might hear the phrase gut drauf sein. This is very common among younger people and in casual social settings. 'Bist du gut drauf?' is the equivalent of 'Are you in a good mood?' or 'Are you feeling good?' It’s more colloquial than 'gut gelaunt.' Another interesting alternative is schwungvoll, which suggests a mood filled with energy and momentum. If the good mood is specifically due to being relaxed, entspannt (relaxed) or gelassen (composed) might be better choices. On the more formal side, 'ausgeglichen' (balanced/even-tempered) describes a state of calm positivity. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that fits the specific 'Vibe' of the situation. For example, a 'gut gelaunter' person might be chatty, whereas an 'ausgeglichener' person might just be quietly happy.

Comparison: gut gelaunt vs. heiter: 'Heiter' is often used in weather forecasts ('heiter bis wolkig') or to describe a light, pleasant atmosphere in a room.

Nach dem Sieg war die ganze Mannschaft euphorisch, nicht nur gut gelaunt.

When looking for antonyms, the most direct one is schlecht gelaunt. However, German has many colorful ways to describe being in a bad mood, such as miesepetrig (grumpy), griesgrämig (morose), or verstimmt (out of sorts). If someone is 'verstimmt,' it often implies they are slightly offended or annoyed. Knowing these opposites helps define the boundaries of gut gelaunt. It is the golden middle of positive emotion—not as extreme as 'ekstatisch' (ecstatic) or 'euphorisch' (euphoric), but far removed from the 'Trübsal' (gloom) of a bad mood. In a professional evaluation, you might see 'er/sie bewahrte auch in Stresssituationen eine positive Grundeinstellung,' which is the formal way of saying they stayed 'gut gelaunt' even when things were difficult. By mastering these alternatives, you can tailor your German to be more precise, expressive, and culturally attuned.

Summary of Alternatives: 1. Fröhlich (Joyful) 2. Heiter (Cheerful/Serene) 3. Gut drauf (In a good way/Slang) 4. Vergnügt (Contented/Playful).

Trotz des Regens spazierte sie vergnügt durch den Park.

Sei nicht so griesgrämig, das Leben ist schön!

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Because 'Laune' comes from 'luna' (moon), being 'gut gelaunt' historically implied that the stars—or the moon—were aligned in your favor that day!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡuːt ɡəˈlaʊnt/

US /ɡut ɡəˈlaʊnt/

The primary stress is on the second syllable of the second word: ge-LAUNT.

Rhymes With

erstaunt (amazed) geraunt (whispered) gefaunt (fawned - rare) Sound (English loanword) Pfund (pound - near rhyme) Mund (mouth - near rhyme) bunt (colorful - near rhyme) rund (round - near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'gut' with a short 'u' like 'put' (it should be long).
Pronouncing the 'g' in 'gelaunt' as a 'j' sound.
Missing the 't' at the end of 'gelaunt'.
Stress on the first syllable 'GE-launt' instead of 'ge-LAUNT'.
Pronouncing 'au' as 'o'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts due to the familiar word 'gut'.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of adjective endings when used before nouns.

Speaking 2/5

Very easy to use in the predicative form (Ich bin gut gelaunt).

Listening 2/5

Commonly used and usually clearly pronounced.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

gut die Laune sein heute sehr

Learn Next

schlecht gelaunt fröhlich glücklich die Stimmung begeistert

Advanced

ausgelassen euphorisch glänzend aufgelegt bestens disponiert unbeschwert

Grammar to Know

Adjective Endings (Mixed Declension)

Ein gut gelaunter (masc.) / Eine gut gelaunte (fem.) / Ein gut gelauntes (neut.) Kind.

Predicative Adjectives

Er ist gut gelaunt. (No ending after 'sein').

Compound Adjectives

Gut + gelaunt. Can be written as 'gut gelaunt' or 'gutgelaunt'.

Word Order in Subordinate Clauses

Ich freue mich, weil du gut gelaunt bist.

Separable Verbs with Adjectives

Er sieht gut gelaunt aus.

Examples by Level

Ich bin heute gut gelaunt.

I am in a good mood today.

Simple subject + verb + adjective structure.

Bist du gut gelaunt?

Are you in a good mood?

Question form: Verb moves to the first position.

Meine Mutter ist immer gut gelaunt.

My mother is always in a good mood.

Use of the adverb 'immer' to show frequency.

Wir sind gut gelaunt.

We are in a good mood.

Plural subject 'wir' with the verb 'sind'.

Er ist nicht gut gelaunt.

He is not in a good mood.

Negation with 'nicht' before the adjective.

Das Kind ist heute sehr gut gelaunt.

The child is in a very good mood today.

Use of 'sehr' to increase intensity.

Warum bist du so gut gelaunt?

Why are you in such a good mood?

Question with 'warum' (why).

Alle Schüler sind heute gut gelaunt.

All students are in a good mood today.

Plural subject 'Alle Schüler'.

Ich bin gut gelaunt, weil Wochenende ist.

I am in a good mood because it is the weekend.

Subordinate clause with 'weil' (verb at the end).

Ein gut gelaunter Kellner begrüßt die Gäste.

A cheerful waiter greets the guests.

Attributive adjective with masculine ending '-er'.

Trotz des Regens sind wir gut gelaunt.

Despite the rain, we are in a good mood.

Sentence starting with 'Trotz' (genitive preposition).

Sie sieht heute wirklich gut gelaunt aus.

She looks really cheerful today.

Use of the separable verb 'aussehen'.

Nach dem Kaffee war er wieder gut gelaunt.

After the coffee, he was in a good mood again.

Past tense 'war' and the adverb 'wieder'.

Wir brauchen eine gut gelaunte Person für das Team.

We need a cheerful person for the team.

Attributive adjective with feminine ending '-e' (accusative).

Bist du morgens immer gut gelaunt?

Are you always in a good mood in the morning?

Adverb 'morgens' indicating time.

Die gut gelaunten Kinder spielen im Garten.

The cheerful children are playing in the garden.

Plural attributive adjective with ending '-en' after definite article.

Ich hoffe, dass du morgen gut gelaunt bist.

I hope that you are in a good mood tomorrow.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Er blieb gut gelaunt, obwohl er die Prüfung nicht bestand.

He stayed in a good mood, although he didn't pass the exam.

Use of 'obwohl' (concessive conjunction).

Wenn ich Musik höre, werde ich sofort gut gelaunt.

When I listen to music, I immediately get in a good mood.

Conditional clause with 'wenn' and the verb 'werden'.

Die gut gelaunte Stimmung auf der Party war toll.

The cheerful atmosphere at the party was great.

Using 'gut gelaunt' to describe 'Stimmung'.

Es ist wichtig, bei der Arbeit gut gelaunt zu sein.

It is important to be in a good mood at work.

Infinitive construction with 'zu sein'.

Sie erzählte uns gut gelaunt von ihrem Urlaub.

She told us cheerfully about her vacation.

Used as an adverbial phrase describing how she told the story.

Niemand war so gut gelaunt wie der Gastgeber.

Nobody was as cheerful as the host.

Comparison with 'so... wie'.

Ich versuche, jeden Tag gut gelaunt zu beginnen.

I try to start every day in a good mood.

Infinitive phrase at the end of the sentence.

Ein gut gelauntes Auftreten ist im Verkauf entscheidend.

A cheerful demeanor is crucial in sales.

Substantivized infinitive 'Auftreten' as a noun.

Trotz der Krise wirkte der Direktor erstaunlich gut gelaunt.

Despite the crisis, the director seemed surprisingly cheerful.

Use of 'wirken' (to seem/appear) and the adverb 'erstaunlich'.

Die Wanderer kehrten gut gelaunt von ihrer Tour zurück.

The hikers returned from their tour in a good mood.

Separable verb 'zurückkehren' with the adjective as a predicative adjunct.

Man erkennt ihn sofort an seinem gut gelaunten Lachen.

You can recognize him immediately by his cheerful laugh.

Dative case after 'an' with masculine ending '-en'.

Sie ist eine der am besten gelaunten Personen, die ich kenne.

She is one of the most good-humored people I know.

Superlative form 'am besten gelaunten' in a relative clause.

Gut gelaunt zu sein, fällt mir bei diesem Wetter leicht.

Being in a good mood is easy for me in this weather.

Infinitive phrase acting as the subject of the sentence.

Er pfiff gut gelaunt ein Lied vor sich hin.

He whistled a song to himself in a good mood.

Adverbial usage describing the manner of the action.

Das gut gelaunte Publikum klatschte begeistert Beifall.

The cheerful audience clapped enthusiastically.

Attributive adjective with neutral ending '-e' after definite article.

Seine gut gelaunte Art kann manchmal fast anstrengend sein.

His cheerful nature can sometimes be almost exhausting.

Using 'Art' to describe personality traits.

Die Autorin las gut gelaunt aus ihrem neuen Roman vor.

The author read cheerfully from her new novel.

Prepositional object 'aus ihrem neuen Roman'.

Es herrschte eine ausgesprochen gut gelaunte Atmosphäre im Saal.

There was a distinctly cheerful atmosphere in the hall.

Use of 'herrschen' to describe an atmospheric state.

Trotz des Jetlags präsentierte er sich den Journalisten gut gelaunt.

Despite the jet lag, he presented himself to the journalists in a good mood.

Reflexive verb 'sich präsentieren' with an adjective complement.

Ein gut gelaunter Geist wohnt oft in einem gesunden Körper.

A cheerful spirit often dwells in a healthy body.

A variation of the famous Latin proverb.

Sie schaffte es, selbst die griesgrämigsten Kollegen gut gelaunt zu stimmen.

She managed to put even the grumpiest colleagues in a good mood.

The phrase 'gut gelaunt stimmen' (to put someone in a good mood).

Dank der gut gelaunten Berichterstattung stiegen die Buchungszahlen.

Thanks to the cheerful reporting, booking numbers increased.

Genitive case after 'Dank'.

Gut gelaunt und voller Tatendrang begann sie ihr neues Projekt.

Cheerful and full of drive, she began her new project.

Double adjective/phrase describing the subject at the start of the sentence.

Die gut gelaunte Nonchalance, mit der er die Vorwürfe abtat, war bemerkenswert.

The cheerful nonchalance with which he dismissed the accusations was remarkable.

Complex noun phrase with a relative clause.

Man mag seine gut gelaunte Fassade für oberflächlich halten, doch sie ist sein Schutzschild.

One might consider his cheerful facade superficial, but it is his shield.

Use of 'Fassade' to suggest a hidden depth.

Das Ensemble agierte spielfreudig und sichtlich gut gelaunt auf der Bühne.

The ensemble acted with a love of playing and was visibly in a good mood on stage.

Adverbial 'sichtlich' modifying the adjective phrase.

Inmitten der allgemeinen Tristesse wirkte ihr gut gelaunter Optimismus fast provokant.

Amidst the general gloom, her cheerful optimism seemed almost provocative.

Preposition 'Inmitten' with genitive case.

Die Verhandlungen wurden in einer überraschend gut gelaunten Weise geführt.

The negotiations were conducted in a surprisingly cheerful manner.

Passive voice construction.

Sie begegnete den Widrigkeiten des Lebens mit einer gut gelaunten Gelassenheit.

She met the adversities of life with a cheerful serenity.

Dative case after 'mit'.

Sein gut gelaunter Altruismus machte ihn zum Herzstück der Gemeinde.

His cheerful altruism made him the heart of the community.

Abstract noun 'Altruismus' modified by the adjective.

Das Werk besticht durch seine gut gelaunte Ironie und sprachliche Leichtigkeit.

The work impresses with its cheerful irony and linguistic lightness.

Describing the tone of a piece of literature.

Common Collocations

auffallend gut gelaunt

morgens gut gelaunt

trotz allem gut gelaunt

sichtlich gut gelaunt

bestens gelaunt sein

gut gelaunt wirken

jemanden gut gelaunt stimmen

gut gelaunt pfeifen

ein gut gelaunter Gastgeber

gut gelaunt in den Tag starten

Common Phrases

Ich bin heute gut gelaunt.

— A standard way to express that you are feeling happy today.

Ich bin heute gut gelaunt, weil die Sonne scheint.

Du bist ja gut gelaunt!

— An exclamation used when you notice someone is particularly cheerful.

Du bist ja gut gelaunt! Hast du gute Neuigkeiten?

Er ist nicht gut gelaunt.

— A polite way to say someone is in a bad mood.

Lass ihn lieber in Ruhe, er ist heute nicht gut gelaunt.

Gut gelaunt sein ist alles.

— A phrase suggesting that a positive attitude is the most important thing.

Egal was passiert, gut gelaunt sein ist alles.

Wie immer gut gelaunt.

— Used to describe someone who is consistently cheerful.

Unser Nachbar ist wie immer gut gelaunt.

Wieder gut gelaunt sein.

— To return to a good mood after being upset or tired.

Nach dem Essen war sie wieder gut gelaunt.

Kaum gut gelaunt sein.

— To rarely be in a good mood.

Er ist am frühen Morgen kaum gut gelaunt.

Richtig gut gelaunt.

— To be in an exceptionally good mood.

Nach dem Konzert war ich richtig gut gelaunt.

Gut gelaunt klingen.

— To sound cheerful (e.g., over the phone).

Am Telefon klang sie sehr gut gelaunt.

Hauptsache gut gelaunt.

— The main thing is to be in a good mood.

Das Wetter ist egal, Hauptsache gut gelaunt!

Often Confused With

gut gelaunt vs glücklich

Glücklich is deeper/longer-term happiness. Gut gelaunt is just for the moment.

gut gelaunt vs gute Laune haben

This is a verb phrase (to have a good mood). Gut gelaunt is the adjective (to be good-mooded).

gut gelaunt vs froh

Froh often means 'relieved' or happy about a specific fact, rather than just a general mood.

Idioms & Expressions

"Bäume ausreißen können"

— To feel so 'gut gelaunt' and energetic that one could uproot trees.

Ich bin heute so gut gelaunt, ich könnte Bäume ausreißen!

informal

"Auf Wolke sieben schweben"

— To be extremely happy or 'gut gelaunt', often because of being in love.

Seit er sie kennt, schwebt er auf Wolke sieben.

neutral

"Sich wie ein Schneekönig freuen"

— To be as happy and 'gut gelaunt' as a 'snow king' (wren).

Sie freute sich wie ein Schneekönig über das Geschenk.

informal

"Gut drauf sein"

— To be in a good mood or feeling energetic.

Alle waren gestern Abend richtig gut drauf.

slang

"Das Herz auf der Zunge tragen"

— To be so 'gut gelaunt' and open that one says exactly what they feel.

Er ist ein ehrlicher Typ und trägt das Herz auf der Zunge.

neutral

"Strahlen wie ein Honigkuchenpferd"

— To grin broadly because one is so 'gut gelaunt'.

Was ist passiert? Du strahlst ja wie ein Honigkuchenpferd!

informal

"Aus dem Häuschen sein"

— To be 'out of one's little house' (extremely excited or happy).

Die Kinder waren wegen des Ausflugs völlig aus dem Häuschen.

informal

"Den Tag versüßen"

— To make someone's day 'sweeter' or put them in a 'gut gelaunt' state.

Deine Nachricht hat mir den Tag versüßt.

neutral

"Mit dem richtigen Fuß aufstehen"

— To get out of bed with the right foot (to start the day 'gut gelaunt').

Ich bin heute mit dem richtigen Fuß aufgestanden.

neutral

"Ein sonniges Gemüt haben"

— To have a sunny disposition (to be naturally 'gut gelaunt').

Sie hat einfach ein sonniges Gemüt.

neutral

Easily Confused

gut gelaunt vs glücklich

Both translate to 'happy' in English.

Glücklich refers to a deep state of happiness or luck. Gut gelaunt is specifically about your mood right now.

Ich bin glücklich verheiratet, aber heute bin ich schlecht gelaunt.

gut gelaunt vs froh

Both describe positive feelings.

Froh often means 'glad' or 'relieved'. You are 'froh' that something happened. You are 'gut gelaunt' because you feel good.

Ich bin froh, dass du da bist. Ich bin heute wirklich gut gelaunt.

gut gelaunt vs lustig

Both are positive traits.

Lustig means 'funny' or 'comical'. A gut gelaunt person might be lustig, but they don't have to be.

Der Film war sehr lustig, danach waren alle gut gelaunt.

gut gelaunt vs zufrieden

Both imply a lack of negative emotions.

Zufrieden means 'satisfied' or 'content'. It is more passive and calm than being gut gelaunt.

Ich bin mit meiner Arbeit zufrieden, aber heute bin ich nicht besonders gut gelaunt.

gut gelaunt vs aufgedreht

Both involve high energy.

Aufgedreht means 'hyper' or 'wound up'. It can be negative, whereas gut gelaunt is always positive.

Die Kinder sind nach dem Zucker total aufgedreht, nicht nur gut gelaunt.

Sentence Patterns

Ich bin [Adjektiv].

Ich bin gut gelaunt.

Ich bin gut gelaunt, weil [Satz].

Ich bin gut gelaunt, weil ich Urlaub habe.

Ein [Adjektiv]er [Nomen].

Ein gut gelaunter Lehrer.

Obwohl [Satz], ist er gut gelaunt.

Obwohl es regnet, ist er gut gelaunt.

Es macht mich gut gelaunt, wenn [Satz].

Es macht mich gut gelaunt, wenn du singst.

Er wirkte sichtlich gut gelaunt.

Er wirkte sichtlich gut gelaunt bei der Feier.

Seine gut gelaunte Art ist [Adjektiv].

Seine gut gelaunte Art ist ansteckend.

Mit [Adjektiv]er Gelassenheit [Verb] er.

Mit gut gelaunter Gelassenheit ignorierte er den Lärm.

Word Family

Nouns

die Laune (mood)

die Launenhaftigkeit (moodiness)

das Gut (good/estate)

die Gutmütigkeit (good-naturedness)

Verbs

launen (to mood - obsolete)

gelaunt sein (to be in a mood)

gutmachen (to make up for something)

Adjectives

launisch (moody)

launenhaft (capricious)

schlecht gelaunt (in a bad mood)

missgelaunt (ill-humored)

Gute-Laune-Musik (feel-good music)

Morgenlaune (morning mood)

Partylaune (party mood)

Urlaubslaune (holiday mood)

Siegerlaune (winner's mood)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high; used daily in spoken and written German.

Common Mistakes

Ich habe gut gelaunt. → Ich bin gut gelaunt.
You cannot 'have' an adjective. You 'are' (sein) gut gelaunt. If you want to use 'haben', you must use the noun: 'Ich habe gute Laune'.
Ein gut gelaunt Mann. → Ein gut gelaunter Mann.
When used before a noun, adjectives must have endings. For a masculine noun in the nominative after 'ein', the ending is '-er'.
Ich bin in einer guten Laune. → Ich bin gut gelaunt.
While 'in guter Laune sein' exists, it is much less common than the simple 'gut gelaunt sein'. The English 'in' does not translate directly here.
Er ist sehr glücklich heute (meaning mood). → Er ist sehr gut gelaunt heute.
English uses 'happy' for both mood and life satisfaction. German distinguishes them. Use 'gut gelaunt' for the temporary feeling.
Warum du bist gut gelaunt? → Warum bist du gut gelaunt?
In a question with a question word, the verb must be in the second position. Don't forget to invert the subject and verb.

Tips

Predicative vs Attributive

Remember that 'gut gelaunt' doesn't need an ending when it follows 'sein'. Use 'Er ist gut gelaunt' for 90% of your needs. Only add endings like -er, -e, -es when it's right before a noun.

Upgrade to 'Bestens'

If you are in an amazing mood, don't just say 'sehr gut'. Use 'bestens gelaunt'. It sounds much more native and sophisticated for B1 and B2 learners.

The Breakfast Test

In Germany, being 'gut gelaunt' at breakfast is a personality trait. Some people are 'Morgenmuffel' (grumpy), so being 'gut gelaunt' in the morning is often commented on.

Use with 'Wirken'

Instead of always using 'sein', try 'wirken' (to seem). 'Du wirkst heute gut gelaunt' is a great way to start a conversation and sounds very natural.

Avoid 'In a good mood'

Don't translate 'in' from English. Saying 'Ich bin in einer guten Laune' is understandable but sounds like a translation. Stick to 'Ich bin gut gelaunt'.

Set the Scene

Use 'gut gelaunt' as an adverbial phrase at the start of a sentence: 'Gut gelaunt machten wir uns auf den Weg.' This is a very common narrative style in German.

Watch for Irony

Sometimes Germans say 'Du bist ja heute gut gelaunt...' with a sarcastic tone if someone is being particularly grumpy. Pay attention to the melody of the voice.

A Safe Compliment

Telling someone 'Man merkt, dass du heute gut gelaunt bist' is a very safe and positive compliment in a professional or social setting.

The Moon Link

Remember the Latin 'Luna' for 'Laune'. Just as the moon changes, so does your mood. 'Gut gelaunt' means your 'moon' is shining bright today!

Long 'U'

Make sure the 'u' in 'gut' is long (like 'moo'). A short 'u' can make the word hard to recognize for native speakers.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'GUT' (good) 'GE-LAUNT' (sounds like 'Lounge'). If you are in a GOOD LOUNGE, you are 'gut gelaunt'!

Visual Association

Imagine a bright yellow sun (representing 'gut') wearing a party hat and relaxing in a lounge chair (representing 'gelaunt').

Word Web

Lächeln (Smile) Sonne (Sun) Lachen (Laughing) Energie (Energy) Optimismus (Optimism) Freunde (Friends) Musik (Music) Erfolg (Success)

Challenge

Try to use 'gut gelaunt' in a sentence three times today: once when you wake up, once during a meal, and once when talking to a friend.

Word Origin

The word is a combination of 'gut' (from Old High German 'guot') and 'gelaunt', which is the past participle of an older verb form of 'Laune'. 'Laune' itself comes from the Latin 'luna' (moon), reflecting the medieval belief that human moods were influenced by the phases of the moon.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant being under the influence of a specific lunar phase, either good or bad.

Germanic (German) with Latin influence (via 'Laune').

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but be careful not to tell someone 'Sei doch mal gut gelaunt!' (Just be in a good mood!) if they are genuinely sad, as it can sound dismissive.

English speakers often say 'I'm in a good mood.' 'Gut gelaunt' is the direct equivalent, but Germans use it more as a standalone adjective ('I am good-mooded').

The song 'Gute Laune' by various German artists often uses the adjective form. German TV show 'Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten' (Good Times, Bad Times) often deals with characters being 'gut' or 'schlecht gelaunt'. Commonly found in 'Glückwunschkarten' (greeting cards).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Work

Ist der Chef gut gelaunt?
Ein gut gelauntes Team arbeitet besser.
Ich versuche, im Büro immer gut gelaunt zu sein.
Trotz des Stresses blieb sie gut gelaunt.

With Friends

Du bist ja heute gut gelaunt!
Wir waren gestern alle super gut gelaunt.
Lass uns was unternehmen, ich bin gerade so gut gelaunt.
Warum bist du so gut gelaunt?

Morning Routine

Bist du ein gut gelaunter Morgenmensch?
Nach dem ersten Kaffee bin ich meistens gut gelaunt.
Gut gelaunt in den Tag starten.
Er ist morgens nie gut gelaunt.

Weather & Nature

Das schöne Wetter macht mich gut gelaunt.
Bei Regen bin ich selten gut gelaunt.
Alle Leute im Park wirkten gut gelaunt.
Sonnenschein sorgt für gut gelaunte Gesichter.

Events & Parties

Das Publikum war extrem gut gelaunt.
Ein gut gelaunter Gastgeber ist wichtig.
Die Gäste gingen gut gelaunt nach Hause.
Alle waren in bester Partylaune und gut gelaunt.

Conversation Starters

"Du siehst heute so gut gelaunt aus, gibt es einen besonderen Grund?"

"Was macht dich an einem Montagmorgen so richtig gut gelaunt?"

"Bist du eher ein Morgenmuffel oder startest du gut gelaunt in den Tag?"

"Welche Musik hörst du am liebsten, wenn du gut gelaunt bist?"

"Ist es dir wichtig, dass deine Kollegen bei der Arbeit gut gelaunt sind?"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe über einen Tag, an dem du besonders gut gelaunt warst. Was ist passiert?

Was sind drei Dinge, die dich sofort gut gelaunt machen, wenn du einen schlechten Tag hast?

Wie wichtig ist es für dich, gut gelaunt zu wirken, auch wenn du es vielleicht gar nicht bist?

Beschreibe eine gut gelaunte Person aus deinem Freundeskreis. Was zeichnet sie aus?

Denkst du, dass das Wetter einen großen Einfluss darauf hat, ob Menschen gut gelaunt sind?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

In modern German, both 'gut gelaunt' and 'gutgelaunt' are acceptable, but writing it as two separate words is currently more common and recommended by most style guides. For example, 'Er ist gut gelaunt' is the standard spelling you will see in newspapers.

Generally, 'gut gelaunt' is used for humans. For animals, Germans usually use verbs like 'sich freuen' (to be happy/excited). However, in a playful or anthropomorphic way, you could say 'Mein Hund ist heute gut gelaunt,' and people would understand you are being cute.

Grammatically, 'gut gelaunt sein' uses an adjective, while 'gute Laune haben' uses a noun phrase. Meaning-wise, they are identical. 'Ich bin gut gelaunt' is slightly more focused on the state, while 'Ich habe gute Laune' is a very common idiomatic phrase.

You can say 'Ich bin sehr gut gelaunt' or use the even stronger 'Ich bin bestens gelaunt.' Another common way is 'Ich bin heute richtig gut drauf' in a more informal setting.

Yes, it is perfectly appropriate for a professional setting. Describing a meeting atmosphere or a colleague as 'gut gelaunt' is common and polite. It shows you are aware of the 'Betriebsklima' (work atmosphere).

Only if it is used before a noun (attributively). For example: 'Ein gut gelauntER Mann.' If it comes after the verb 'sein,' it stays the same: 'Der Mann ist gut gelaunt.' This is the same rule for all adjectives in German.

The most common opposite is 'schlecht gelaunt.' You can also use 'mies gelaunt' for a very bad mood or 'verstimmt' for being slightly annoyed or out of sorts.

Usually, it describes people. However, you can say 'eine gut gelaunte Gesellschaft' (a cheerful group/company) or 'eine gut gelaunte Stimmung' (a cheerful mood/atmosphere) to describe the collective feeling of a place.

There is no single verb. You must use the phrase 'gut gelaunt sein' or 'gute Laune haben.' German relies heavily on these adjective/noun constructions for emotional states.

Yes, you can say 'Ich werde morgen bestimmt gut gelaunt sein, weil ich dann frei habe.' This uses the future tense with 'werden'.