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B1 noun #5,000 most common 11 min read

Prima!

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Prima! in 30 Seconds
Explanation Prima! in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic German. Words like 'Prima!' might be encountered as simple exclamations that convey positive emotion, similar to 'Good!' or 'Yes!'. The focus is on recognizing the positive sound and basic context of approval without needing to understand the nuances. Learners might hear it in very simple dialogues where something good happens, like a toy working or a snack being offered. They would associate it with a happy sound.
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A2 learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. 'Prima!' fits this category as a common, high-frequency interjection. They can start to use it in very simple, direct responses to indicate they are happy with something. For example, if asked 'Ist das gut?' (Is that good?), they might respond with 'Prima!'. They understand it as a direct positive affirmation.
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At the B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. 'Prima!' is a word they will frequently encounter and can use with confidence to express strong approval or satisfaction in everyday situations. They understand its nuances and can distinguish it from more neutral positive words. They can use it to react enthusiastically to good news or a job well done. It's a key word for expressing positive emotions and opinions.
B2 learners can understand the main ideas of complex text. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible. 'Prima!' is a word they will use effortlessly to add color and enthusiasm to their speech. They understand its register and can use it appropriately in informal and neutral contexts. They can also recognize when it might be slightly too informal for a very official setting.
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C1 learners have a proficient and fluent command of the language. They use 'Prima!' naturally and can employ it to add stylistic flair or to convey a specific tone of enthusiastic approval. They understand its historical roots and how it has evolved into a common expression. They can also use it in written communication effectively, understanding its role in conveying positive sentiment concisely. They might even use it ironically in certain contexts, though its primary use is sincere.
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C2 learners have a mastery of the language, approaching native-like proficiency. 'Prima!' is a word they would use without a second thought, fully integrated into their lexicon. They understand all its subtle connotations, its historical context, and its usage across different dialects and registers. They can employ it with perfect accuracy and appropriateness, contributing to a rich and nuanced expression of positive sentiment.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Prima! in 30 Seconds

  • Prima! means Great! or Excellent! in German.
  • It's a common, positive exclamation of strong approval.
  • Use it when you are happy with something or someone's performance.
  • Similar to 'Awesome!' or 'Super!' in English.

'Prima!' is a very common and versatile German interjection used to express strong approval, satisfaction, or joy. It's the equivalent of English phrases like 'Great!', 'Excellent!', 'Wonderful!', 'Fantastic!', or 'Super!' You'll hear it in a wide range of situations, from casual conversations among friends to more formal settings where someone wants to convey a positive evaluation. It's a word that immediately signals a positive sentiment.

Think of it as a quick and enthusiastic way to say that something is good, well done, or perfectly fine. For instance, if someone asks if you're ready to go, and you are, you might reply with 'Prima!'. If a child shows you a drawing they are proud of, you could say 'Prima!' to praise their work. When a plan is confirmed or a task is completed successfully, 'Prima!' is an appropriate response to acknowledge the positive outcome. It's a word that carries a lot of positive energy and is widely understood across German-speaking countries.

The usage of 'Prima!' is not limited to specific age groups; children, teenagers, and adults all use it frequently. It's a staple in everyday German communication when expressing happiness or satisfaction. The word itself has a cheerful sound, which contributes to its positive connotation. It can be used as a standalone exclamation or as part of a larger sentence. Its brevity makes it efficient for quick reactions, but its meaning is always clear: something is good, very good, or excellent.

Consider situations like receiving good news, a successful outcome of an event, or even just a simple agreement that everything is in order. In all these scenarios, 'Prima!' fits perfectly. It's a word that fosters a positive atmosphere and is a testament to the German language's ability to convey emotion and evaluation concisely. Its widespread use makes it an essential word for anyone learning German, as it will be encountered frequently in authentic communication.

The word's origin, which we'll explore later, hints at its positive and foundational meaning. But for now, focus on its current function: a universally understood signal of 'all is well' or 'this is great!' It's a word that aims to uplift and affirm, making interactions more pleasant and encouraging. Mastering 'Prima!' will immediately enhance your ability to express positive feedback in German.

Usage Contexts
Responding to good news, acknowledging a job well done, confirming everything is in order, expressing general happiness or satisfaction with a situation.

The weather is beautiful today. Prima!

You finished your homework already? Prima!

Emotional Tone
Enthusiastic, cheerful, positive, affirming.

Your presentation was very well received. Prima!

Synonymous Expressions
Great!, Excellent!, Wonderful!, Fantastic!, Super!, All good!

Did you manage to fix the car? Yes, it's working now. Prima!

'Prima!' is most commonly used as a standalone interjection, which means it can stand on its own as a complete utterance to express a feeling or reaction. This is its most frequent and natural usage. For example:

'I got the job!' - 'Prima!'

However, 'Prima!' can also be integrated into sentences, often at the beginning or end, to add emphasis or a final positive note. When used within a sentence, it often modifies the overall sentiment of that sentence, reinforcing the positive message. For instance, you might say:

'That was a prima idea! Let's do it.' (Note: when used attributively before a noun, it's often not capitalized and might be declined in formal contexts, though 'prima Idee' is common.)

In more informal speech, you might hear it appended to a statement:

'We have enough cake for everyone, prima!'

It can also be used to describe something that is excellent or first-class, functioning almost like an adjective, though this is less common than its interjectional use. In such cases, it's often used without declension, especially in informal speech. For example:

'This wine is really prima.' (meaning 'excellent')

When 'Prima!' is used as an adjective, it often implies a high standard or quality. It's a flexible word that adapts to different grammatical roles, but its core meaning of excellence and satisfaction remains consistent. Remember that while it can sometimes function adjectivally, its primary role is as an exclamation of approval. Pay attention to context to determine its exact function in a sentence.

The flexibility of 'Prima!' is one of its strengths. It can be used to punctuate a statement, to respond to a question, or even to describe a quality. This makes it a highly useful word for learners to incorporate into their vocabulary. Practicing its use in various sentence structures will help solidify its meaning and application.

Consider the following examples to see its versatility:

Standalone Exclamation
'Did you get the tickets?' - 'Yes, I did! Prima!'
At the End of a Sentence
'The concert was amazing, Prima!'
As an Adjective (Informal)
'This is a prima solution to our problem.'

'Prima!' is a word you will encounter constantly in everyday German life. It's incredibly common in informal conversations among friends, family, and colleagues. If you're watching German television shows, listening to German podcasts, or interacting with native speakers, you're guaranteed to hear 'Prima!' used frequently.

Imagine a scenario where friends are planning a weekend trip. Someone suggests a destination, and another person enthusiastically agrees by saying, 'Oh, prima Idee!' (Prima idea!). Or, perhaps during a family gathering, a child proudly presents a drawing, and a parent exclaims, 'Prima, Schatz! Das ist wunderschön!' (Prima, darling! That's beautiful!).

In a work environment, after a successful project completion or a well-executed presentation, a team member might say to another, 'Das hast du prima gemacht!' (You did that excellently!). Even in more mundane situations, like confirming that a meeting time works for everyone, someone might say, 'Um 10 Uhr? Prima, dann machen wir das so.' (At 10 AM? Prima, then we'll do it like that.).

You'll also hear it in educational settings, from primary school teachers praising their students' efforts to university professors acknowledging a student's insightful comment. The word is so ingrained in the language that it's used without much thought, simply as a natural expression of positivity.

Think of it as the verbal equivalent of a thumbs-up or a cheerful nod. It's used to validate, encourage, and share positive feelings. Its ubiquity means that understanding and using 'Prima!' will significantly boost your conversational fluency and your ability to connect with German speakers on a more personal and positive level. It's a word that bridges gaps and fosters good feelings.

Furthermore, 'Prima!' is not confined to verbal communication. You might even see it in written form, such as in informal emails or text messages, to convey a similar sentiment of strong approval or satisfaction. Its conciseness and clear positive meaning make it ideal for quick digital communication as well.

The prevalence of 'Prima!' in German media, from advertisements to news reports (in contexts where informal language is appropriate), further solidifies its status as a commonly heard and understood word. It's a linguistic tool that speakers use to express genuine enthusiasm and satisfaction, making it an indispensable part of the German lexicon for learners.

Common Scenarios
Friends planning an outing, parents praising children, colleagues discussing project success, confirming arrangements.

'The train is on time!' - 'Prima!'

Media Usage
Advertisements, informal blog posts, social media comments, dialogue in German films and TV shows.

'I found a great apartment!' - 'Prima! Congratulations!'

One common mistake for learners is to overuse 'Prima!' or use it in situations where a more nuanced expression of approval is needed. While 'Prima!' is generally positive, it carries a strong sense of enthusiastic approval. Using it for something only mildly satisfactory might sound a bit over the top or insincere.

For example, if someone asks how your very long and uneventful commute was, saying 'Prima!' might be a bit much. A more subdued response like 'Es ging' (It was okay) or 'Ganz gut' (Quite good) would be more appropriate. 'Prima!' implies a higher degree of satisfaction or excitement.

Another potential pitfall is misinterpreting its grammatical function. While 'Prima!' is primarily an interjection, it can sometimes be used attributively (like an adjective) before a noun, especially in informal German. However, learners might incorrectly try to decline it like a regular adjective in all contexts. For instance, saying 'eine prima-en Idee' would be incorrect. In informal speech, it often remains uninflected: 'eine prima Idee'. While formal German might require declension if it were treated as a true adjective ('eine prima-e Idee'), the interjectional use is far more common and safer for learners.

A related mistake is using it as a verb. 'Prima!' is not a verb and cannot be conjugated. You cannot say 'Ich prima' or 'Du prima-st'. It is a fixed expression. Confusing it with words that can function as verbs or adjectives in various forms can lead to grammatical errors.

Furthermore, learners might hesitate to use it because they associate it with being informal. While 'Prima!' is certainly common in informal settings, it's not strictly slang and can be used in many neutral or even slightly formal contexts to convey genuine enthusiasm. The mistake is to think it's *only* for very casual situations, thus limiting its useful application. It's generally safe to use unless the situation is extremely formal or somber.

Finally, some learners might be confused by its origin, perhaps thinking it implies something is 'first' or 'primary' in a hierarchical sense. While its etymology is related to 'first,' its modern usage is about excellence and satisfaction, not necessarily rank or order. Overthinking its etymological roots can lead to misapplication.

Mistake: Overuse in mundane situations
Using 'Prima!' for something only slightly good when a more moderate response is needed.

Incorrect: 'How was your walk?' - 'Prima!' (if it was just an average walk)

Correct: 'How was your walk?' - 'Ganz gut.' (Quite good.)

Mistake: Grammatical confusion
Trying to decline 'Prima!' like a regular adjective or using it as a verb.

Incorrect: 'Ich prima-e das.' (I am prima-ing that.)

Correct: 'Das ist prima!' (That is great!)

While 'Prima!' is a fantastic word, German offers a rich variety of ways to express approval and satisfaction. Understanding these alternatives allows for more nuanced communication.

Super!
This is very similar to 'Prima!' and is used in almost identical situations. It's also a direct loanword from English and carries the same enthusiastic tone. Both are excellent choices for expressing strong approval.
Toll!
'Toll!' also means 'great!' or 'wonderful!' It's very common and can be used in a wide range of contexts, slightly less emphatic than 'Prima!' sometimes, but still strongly positive. It's a bit more 'German' in origin than 'Prima!' or 'Super!'
Klasse!
Literally meaning 'class!', 'Klasse!' is used to mean 'great!' or 'excellent!' It's very informal and often used among younger people, but also widely understood and used by adults. It conveys a sense of high quality or top-notch performance.
Sehr gut!
This literally means 'Very good!' It's a more straightforward and perhaps slightly less exclamatory way to express approval. It's perfectly acceptable in most situations and is a safe bet if you're unsure.
Wunderbar!
Meaning 'wonderful!', this is another strong positive expression. It's perhaps a bit more formal or literary than 'Prima!' or 'Super!' but still very common and effective.
Ausgezeichnet!
This means 'excellent!' or 'outstanding!' It's a more formal and perhaps stronger word than 'Prima!' and is often used for more significant achievements or performances.
Genau!
While 'Genau!' means 'Exactly!' or 'Precisely!', it is often used in agreement with a statement, implying that the statement is correct and therefore good or 'prima'. It's a form of agreement that implicitly conveys approval.
Alles klar!
This means 'All clear!' or 'All right!' It can be used to confirm understanding, agreement, or that everything is in order, similar to how 'Prima!' can be used to confirm that everything is fine.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Prima!' entered German not directly from Latin in everyday speech, but often through other European languages or as a more formal or Latinate expression. Its widespread adoption as an interjection for 'great!' is a testament to its universal appeal for expressing strong positive sentiment. It's similar to how English adopted 'super' or 'excellent'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈpʁiːma/
US /ˈpɹiːmə/
The stress is on the first syllable: PRI-ma.
Rhymes With
Klima Birma Lima Schlima Dima Nima Rima Zima
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'i' too short, like the 'i' in 'sit'.
  • Making the 'r' sound too much like an English 'r' instead of a German guttural 'r'.
  • Not stressing the first syllable.
  • Pronouncing the final 'a' like the 'a' in 'cat'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Recognizing 'Prima!' in reading is straightforward due to its common usage and positive context. Learners will quickly associate it with positive meaning in texts, especially in dialogue or informal writing. Its consistent positive connotation makes it easy to understand its role.

Writing 2/5

Using 'Prima!' correctly in writing is also relatively easy, primarily as a standalone exclamation or in common phrases. The main challenge might be knowing when its enthusiastic tone is appropriate versus a more neutral expression of approval. Overuse or inappropriate context could be a minor issue.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is relatively simple. The main aspect for speaking is delivering it with the correct enthusiastic tone. Understanding the nuances of when to use it versus other positive words is key to sounding natural.

Listening 1/5

Hearing and understanding 'Prima!' is very easy due to its clear pronunciation and common usage. Its positive sound and context make it one of the first positive interjections learners typically pick up.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Gut Ja Danke Hallo Tschüss

Learn Next

Sehr gut! Toll! Super! Wunderbar!

Advanced

Ausgezeichnet Hervorragend Bestens

Grammar to Know

Interjections: Words that express strong emotion and often stand alone.

'Prima!' is an interjection expressing joy or approval.

Attributive Adjectives: Adjectives that come before the noun they modify.

In informal German, 'prima' can sometimes be used attributively: 'eine prima Idee'.

Adverbial Use: Words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.

'Prima' can sometimes function adverbially, describing how something is done or its quality: 'Er hat das prima gemacht.'

Loanwords: Words borrowed from other languages.

'Prima!' is a loanword, originally from Latin, adopted into German.

Register and Formality: The level of formality appropriate for a given situation.

'Prima!' is generally informal but can be used in neutral contexts for strong positive emphasis.

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Examples by Level

1

Das ist gut!

That is good!

Simple statement of approval.

2

Ja!

Yes!

Simple affirmation.

3

Lecker!

Yummy!

Expressing pleasure related to taste.

4

Super!

Super!

Another common positive exclamation.

5

Gut gemacht!

Well done!

Praise for an action.

6

Ich mag das.

I like that.

Expressing liking.

7

Prima!

Great!

A simple, strong positive word.

8

Danke!

Thank you!

Expressing gratitude.

1

Das ist toll!

That is great!

Common expression for something good.

2

Ich bin froh.

I am happy.

Expressing personal happiness.

3

Sehr gut!

Very good!

A direct and clear positive evaluation.

4

Das gefällt mir.

I like that.

Expressing personal preference.

5

Prima, danke!

Great, thank you!

Combining approval with gratitude.

6

Alles gut?

Everything good?

Checking if things are okay, often implying hope for a positive answer.

7

Das ist prima!

That is great!

Using 'prima' within a simple sentence.

8

Ich habe es geschafft!

I managed it!

Expressing successful completion.

1

Deine Präsentation war wirklich prima!

Your presentation was really great!

Using 'prima' to praise performance.

2

Prima, das passt mir.

Great, that suits me.

Expressing agreement and satisfaction with a plan.

3

Ich habe die Prüfung bestanden, prima!

I passed the exam, great!

Expressing personal joy about an achievement.

4

Das ist eine prima Idee!

That is a great idea!

Using 'prima' attributively before a noun.

5

Prima, dann können wir jetzt loslegen.

Great, then we can start now.

Connecting approval with the next action.

6

Die neuen Schuhe sind prima.

The new shoes are great.

Describing an object's quality.

7

Endlich Feierabend, prima!

Finally, end of work, great!

Expressing relief and satisfaction.

8

Das Wetter ist heute wirklich prima.

The weather is really great today.

Describing environmental conditions positively.

1

Der Service hier ist wirklich prima, ich bin sehr zufrieden.

The service here is really great, I am very satisfied.

More detailed expression of satisfaction.

2

Prima, dass du dich darum gekümmert hast, das erspart mir viel Arbeit.

Great that you took care of it, that saves me a lot of work.

Expressing appreciation for someone's help.

3

Nach dem langen Training war das Eis eine prima Belohnung.

After the long training, the ice cream was a great reward.

Using 'prima' to describe something as an excellent reward.

4

Obwohl es schwierig war, haben wir eine prima Lösung gefunden.

Although it was difficult, we found a great solution.

Acknowledging difficulty but highlighting a positive outcome.

5

Die Organisation des Festivals war prima, alles hat reibungslos funktioniert.

The organization of the festival was great, everything worked smoothly.

Praising the effectiveness of an organizational effort.

6

Prima, dann können wir ja bald mit dem Bau beginnen.

Great, then we can start with the construction soon.

Indicating readiness and positive anticipation.

7

Er hat ein prima Gedächtnis für Zahlen.

He has a great memory for numbers.

Describing a skill or attribute as excellent.

8

Das ist ja prima, jetzt haben wir auch noch Regen!

That's just great, now we also have rain!

Used sarcastically to express displeasure with a negative situation.

1

Die Zusammenarbeit mit diesem Team ist stets prima, jeder bringt sich engagiert ein.

The collaboration with this team is always great, everyone contributes with dedication.

Expressing sustained positive sentiment about teamwork.

2

Prima, dass Sie uns auf diese Möglichkeit aufmerksam gemacht haben; das eröffnet ganz neue Perspektiven.

Great that you have made us aware of this possibility; that opens up completely new perspectives.

Acknowledging the value of a suggestion and its potential.

3

Nach all den Rückschlägen ist das Erreichen dieses Meilensteins wirklich prima zu nennen.

After all the setbacks, reaching this milestone can truly be called great.

Highlighting achievement in the face of adversity.

4

Die Art und Weise, wie er das Problem gelöst hat, war schlichtweg prima.

The way he solved the problem was simply great.

Praising the method or approach.

5

Es ist prima, wenn man sich auf seine Kollegen verlassen kann, besonders in stressigen Zeiten.

It is great when you can rely on your colleagues, especially in stressful times.

Valuing reliability and support.

6

Prima, dass die Lieferung pünktlich eingetroffen ist; das ermöglicht uns, den Zeitplan einzuhalten.

Great that the delivery arrived on time; that allows us to keep to the schedule.

Connecting punctual delivery to successful project management.

7

Seine Fähigkeit, komplexe Sachverhalte verständlich zu erklären, ist einfach prima.

His ability to explain complex issues comprehensibly is simply great.

Commending a specific skill.

8

Prima, dass die Kinder sich so gut unterhalten, das gibt uns etwas Ruhe.

Great that the children are entertaining themselves so well, that gives us some peace.

Appreciating a situation that benefits others.

1

Die Resonanz auf unsere Kampagne war, gelinde gesagt, prima – wir haben unsere Ziele weit übertroffen.

The response to our campaign was, to put it mildly, great – we far exceeded our goals.

Using 'prima' with understatement ('gelinde gesagt') for a highly positive outcome.

2

Es ist prima, wenn man die Möglichkeit hat, sich weiterzubilden und neue Fähigkeiten zu erlernen, die den Horizont erweitern.

It is great when one has the opportunity to further educate oneself and learn new skills that broaden one's horizons.

Expressing the profound value of continuous learning.

3

Die Art und Weise, wie das Team auch unter extremem Druck die Fassung bewahrt und eine prima Leistung abliefert, ist bewundernswert.

The way the team maintains composure even under extreme pressure and delivers a great performance is admirable.

Highlighting resilience and performance under duress.

4

Die Harmonie innerhalb der Familie, trotz aller Widrigkeiten, ist ein prima Beispiel für Zusammenhalt.

The harmony within the family, despite all adversities, is a great example of cohesion.

Using 'prima' to denote an exemplary situation.

5

Ein prima Schachzug, diese strategische Investition, die sich langfristig auszahlen wird.

A great move, this strategic investment, which will pay off in the long term.

Describing a strategic decision as excellent.

6

Prima, dass Sie das so klar formuliert haben; das vermeidet jegliche Missverständnisse.

Great that you have formulated that so clearly; that avoids any misunderstandings.

Appreciating clarity and its preventive effect.

7

Die Fähigkeit, aus Fehlern zu lernen und gestärkt daraus hervorzugehen, ist eine prima Eigenschaft.

The ability to learn from mistakes and emerge stronger is a great quality.

Identifying a valuable personal characteristic.

8

Prima, dann steht der Veröffentlichung des Buches nichts mehr im Wege.

Great, then nothing stands in the way of the book's publication.

Confirming the final stage of a project with enthusiasm.

Common Collocations

Prima Idee
Prima Wetter
Prima Leistung
Prima Lösung
Prima gemacht
Prima Job
Prima Lage
Prima Verhältnis
Prima Zustand
Prima Sache

Common Phrases

Prima!

— This is the most common usage, as a standalone exclamation of strong approval. It means 'Great!', 'Excellent!', or 'Wonderful!'

'Ich habe die Prüfung bestanden!' - 'Prima!'

Das ist prima!

— Used to specifically affirm that a particular thing, situation, or outcome is excellent or very good.

'Die neue Software funktioniert perfekt. Das ist prima!'

Prima Idee!

— A direct and enthusiastic way to say that someone has come up with an excellent idea.

'Wir könnten ins Kino gehen.' - 'Prima Idee!'

Prima gemacht!

— A direct compliment for a job well done, expressing strong approval of someone's actions or performance.

'Du hast das Regal perfekt montiert. Prima gemacht!'

Prima, dann...

— Used to express approval and then transition to the next step or action based on that approval.

'Die Lieferung ist angekommen.' - 'Prima, dann können wir jetzt mit dem Aufbau beginnen.'

Das ist prima für mich.

— Indicates that something is very convenient, suitable, or beneficial for the speaker.

'Der Termin passt mir am Vormittag.' - 'Prima für mich!'

Prima, danke!

— Combines strong approval with gratitude, often used when someone has done something helpful or provided good news.

'Ich habe dir geholfen, die Tasche zu tragen.' - 'Prima, danke!'

Prima Lage

— Describes a location as excellent, ideal, or very desirable.

'Die Wohnung hat eine prima Lage, ganz in der Nähe vom Park.'

Prima Verhältnis

— Indicates that a relationship between people is very good, harmonious, and positive.

'Sie haben ein prima Verhältnis zueinander, sie verstehen sich gut.'

Prima Sache

— A general positive statement referring to a situation, event, or thing as being very good or beneficial.

'Dass wir jetzt mehr Freizeit haben, ist eine prima Sache.'

Often Confused With

Prima! vs Prime

'Prime' in English refers to something excellent or the best (e.g., prime time, prime quality). While related etymologically to 'Prima!', 'Prime' isn't used as an exclamation in English. 'Prima!' is the German interjection.

Prima! vs Primär

'Primär' is a German adjective meaning 'primary' or 'main'. It's a more formal term and relates to order or importance, not general approval like 'Prima!'.

Prima! vs Super!

'Super!' is a very close synonym and often interchangeable with 'Prima!'. Both are informal exclamations of strong approval. The difference is subtle, with 'Prima!' perhaps carrying a slightly more established or 'classic' feel in German.

Easily Confused

Prima! vs Super!

Both are informal exclamations of strong approval, often used interchangeably.

'Prima!' has Latin roots ('primus' - first) and feels very established in German. 'Super!' is a more direct loanword from English and might feel slightly more modern or playful. Both convey enthusiasm.

'Das Konzert war super!' / 'Das Konzert war prima!'

Prima! vs Toll!

Also a common German word for 'great!' or 'wonderful!', used in similar positive contexts.

'Toll!' is a native German word and can sometimes feel a bit less emphatic than 'Prima!' or 'Super!', though it's still a strong positive. 'Prima!' often carries a slightly more energetic or 'perfect!' connotation.

'Dein neues Auto ist toll!' / 'Dein neues Auto ist prima!'

Prima! vs Klasse!

Another informal interjection meaning 'great!' or 'excellent!'.

'Klasse!' is very informal, often associated with younger speakers or very casual settings. It literally means 'class' and implies top-tier quality. 'Prima!' is more broadly applicable across registers.

'Das Spiel war klasse!' / 'Das Spiel war prima!'

Prima! vs Sehr gut!

Means 'Very good!' and is a direct expression of approval.

'Sehr gut!' is more neutral and less exclamatory than 'Prima!'. 'Prima!' implies a higher level of enthusiasm and satisfaction, often bordering on delight or excitement, whereas 'Sehr gut!' is a more straightforward positive evaluation.

'Die Hausaufgabe ist sehr gut.' / 'Die Hausaufgabe ist prima!'

Prima! vs Ausgezeichnet!

Means 'excellent!' and is used for strong positive evaluation.

'Ausgezeichnet!' is significantly more formal and emphatic than 'Prima!'. It's typically reserved for outstanding achievements, performances, or significant positive outcomes. 'Prima!' is much more common in everyday, informal, and neutral situations.

'Ihre Präsentation war ausgezeichnet.' / 'Deine Präsentation war prima!'

Sentence Patterns

A1

Interjection!

Prima!

A2

Das ist + Interjection!

Das ist prima!

B1

Interjection, + statement.

Prima, dann können wir jetzt loslegen.

B1

(Subject) hat (object) + Interjection + gemacht!

Du hast das prima gemacht!

B1

Eine + Interjection + Noun!

Eine prima Idee!

B2

Subject + ist + Interjection + (Prepositional Phrase).

Die Lage ist prima für uns.

B2

Interjection, + dass + clause.

Prima, dass du gekommen bist.

C1

Subject + Verb + Interjection + (object/complement).

Wir fanden die Vorstellung prima.

Word Family

Related

primär primary, main
Prime prime (e.g., Prime Minister, prime number)
Primat primacy, supremacy
primeln to primp, to preen (less common, related to appearance)
primaer primarily, mainly
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How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'Prima!' for mild satisfaction. → Using a more neutral word like 'Gut' or 'Okay'.

    'Prima!' implies strong enthusiasm and excellence. Using it for something only slightly satisfactory can sound over-the-top or insincere. Reserve 'Prima!' for when something is genuinely great or excellent.

  • Pronouncing the 'i' as a short 'i'. → Pronouncing the 'i' as a long 'ee' sound (like in 'see').

    The long 'ee' sound is crucial for correct pronunciation. Incorrectly shortening it can change the word's sound and make it harder for native speakers to understand.

  • Treating 'Prima!' as a verb. → Using it as an interjection or, informally, as an adjective.

    'Prima!' is not a verb and cannot be conjugated. Phrases like 'Ich prima' or 'Du prima-st' are grammatically incorrect.

  • Overusing 'Prima!' in formal contexts. → Using more formal alternatives like 'Ausgezeichnet!' or 'Sehr gut!'.

    While 'Prima!' is versatile, its informal nature makes it less suitable for very formal situations where a more reserved and precise expression of approval is expected.

  • Declining 'Prima!' like a regular adjective in all cases. → Using it as an interjection or, in informal contexts, keeping it uninflected when used attributively (e.g., 'eine prima Idee').

    While it can function adjectivally, its declension can be tricky and varies with formality. As an interjection, it's always uninflected. Sticking to the interjectional use or the common informal attributive use avoids grammatical errors.

Tips

Focus on the 'i' sound

The 'i' in 'Prima!' is a long 'ee' sound, like in the English word 'see'. Make sure to hold this sound slightly longer than a short 'i' to pronounce it correctly. For example, 'PREE-mah'.

Match the enthusiasm

To sound natural, try to deliver 'Prima!' with the same level of enthusiasm you feel. If something is truly great, let your voice convey that excitement. This will make your usage more authentic.

Listen for positive cues

When you hear 'Prima!', pay attention to the speaker's tone and the situation. This will help you understand the nuances of its usage and when it's most appropriate to employ it yourself.

Connect to 'prime'

Think of 'Prima!' as meaning 'prime' or 'first class'. When something is 'prima', it's the best quality or the best possible outcome, like a 'prime' example of excellence.

Standalone is safest

The safest and most common way to use 'Prima!' is as a standalone exclamation. If you're unsure about using it within a sentence or as an adjective, stick to using it as a direct response to convey approval.

Know your synonyms

While 'Prima!' is great, familiarize yourself with 'Super!', 'Toll!', and 'Klasse!' as they are also very common informal ways to express strong approval in German and can add variety to your vocabulary.

Use it in daily life

Actively look for opportunities to use 'Prima!' in your German practice. Whether you're talking to a language partner, writing in a journal, or even just thinking to yourself, try to incorporate it when you feel positive about something.

Avoid in very formal settings

While 'Prima!' is versatile, remember its informal leanings. For highly formal settings like official documents or very serious discussions, consider more reserved expressions of approval.

Latin root for 'first'

Remembering that 'Prima!' comes from the Latin word for 'first' can help you associate it with being the best, top-quality, or leading the way.

Listen for it in media

Actively listen for 'Prima!' in German movies, TV shows, and podcasts. Noticing its context will significantly improve your understanding and ability to use it appropriately.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'prime' number, like 7. Prime numbers are special and fundamental. When something is 'Prima!', it's special and fundamental in its goodness, like a prime example of excellence. Or, think of a 'prime' cut of meat – it's the best, the highest quality. 'Prima!' signifies that highest quality.

Visual Association

Picture a gold medal with 'Prima!' engraved on it, awarded for first place. Or imagine a chef giving a chef's kiss and saying 'Prima!' after tasting something delicious. Visualize a bright, shining sun with rays that spell out 'Prima!'.

Word Web

Exclamation Approval Satisfaction Joy Excellent Great Super Positive

Challenge

Try to use 'Prima!' at least three times today in a real or imagined conversation. For example, when your coffee is just right, when a friend tells you good news, or when you complete a small task. Focus on the feeling of genuine enthusiasm.

Word Origin

The word 'Prima!' originates from Latin. It comes from the Latin word 'primus', meaning 'first'. This connection is evident in related German words like 'primär' (primary) and 'Prime' (as in Prime Minister). The idea of 'first' or 'best' is at the core of its meaning.

Original meaning: In its Latin root, 'primus' signified the ordinal number 'first', implying precedence or being of the highest rank. Over time, this evolved to also mean 'best' or 'excellent'.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance Languages (influencing German via loanwords and cognates)

Cultural Context

Generally, 'Prima!' is a very safe and positive word to use. It is not considered offensive or inappropriate in almost any situation where positive feedback is warranted. The only potential issue is using it in extremely somber or formal contexts where its enthusiasm might seem out of place, but even then, it's unlikely to cause offense. It is universally understood as a positive affirmation.

While English has many words for approval ('Great!', 'Excellent!', 'Awesome!'), 'Prima!' fills a similar niche in German, often used with a slightly more energetic or enthusiastic tone than a simple 'good'. Its adoption is a sign of linguistic borrowing and the universal human need for positive exclamations.

The word's origin from Latin 'primus' (first) is a key reference point. Its use in German media, from children's shows to advertisements, highlights its commonality. Comparisons to similar loanwords in other languages like 'Super!' in English or French reinforce its international flavor.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Positive feedback on performance or actions

  • Prima gemacht!
  • Das war prima!
  • Eine prima Leistung.

Agreement and confirmation

  • Prima, dann machen wir das so.
  • Prima, das passt.
  • Prima, danke!

Expressing happiness about a situation

  • Das Wetter ist prima!
  • Prima, dass du da bist!
  • Endlich Wochenende, prima!

Praising ideas or suggestions

  • Prima Idee!
  • Das ist eine prima Lösung.
  • Eine prima Sache!

Describing objects or qualities

  • Prima Lage
  • Prima Zustand
  • Ein prima Buch.

Conversation Starters

"What's a situation where you recently felt like saying 'Prima!'?"

"Can you think of a time when someone's idea was so good it deserved a 'Prima!'?"

"How would you react if you received excellent news? What word would you use besides 'Prima!'?"

"Describe something that is in 'prima' condition. What makes it so good?"

"When is it appropriate to use 'Prima!' versus a more formal word like 'Ausgezeichnet!'?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a day where everything went 'prima'. What made it a great day?

Write about a time you received praise for something you did. How did it feel, and what word would you use to describe the praise?

Imagine you are a teacher. How would you use 'Prima!' to encourage your students?

Think about a skill or hobby you have. Describe why it's 'prima' for you.

Write a short dialogue between two friends where they use 'Prima!' multiple times to express their excitement about a plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Prima!' is generally considered informal to neutral. It's very common in everyday conversations among friends, family, and colleagues. While it's not strictly slang, it's usually not the best choice for highly formal situations like official speeches or academic papers, where words like 'ausgezeichnet' (excellent) or 'sehr gut' (very good) might be preferred. However, its enthusiastic nature can sometimes make it appropriate even in semi-formal settings to convey genuine delight.

Yes, in informal German, 'Prima!' can function like an adjective, usually before a noun, meaning 'great' or 'excellent'. For example, 'eine prima Idee' (a great idea). In these cases, it often remains uninflected. However, its primary role is as an interjection.

'Prima!' and 'Super!' are very close synonyms and are often used interchangeably. Both are informal exclamations of strong approval. 'Prima!' has Latin origins ('primus' meaning 'first'), giving it a slightly more established feel in German, while 'Super!' is a more direct loanword from English and might feel a bit more modern or playful. Both are excellent choices for expressing enthusiasm.

'Gut' means 'good', and it's a more general and often more neutral positive assessment. 'Prima!' implies a higher level of satisfaction, enthusiasm, or excellence. You would say 'Gut' for something that is okay or satisfactory, but 'Prima!' for something that is truly great, wonderful, or perfectly fine.

Yes, like many positive exclamations, 'Prima!' can be used sarcastically, especially when something negative has happened. The tone of voice is crucial here. For example, if your train is delayed, you might say 'Prima!' with a sarcastic tone to express your annoyance. However, its default meaning is sincere approval.

Some very common phrases include 'Prima Idee!' (Great idea!), 'Prima gemacht!' (Well done!), and using it as a standalone exclamation like 'Prima!' in response to good news. You'll also hear it in phrases like 'eine prima Lage' (a great location) or 'ein prima Zustand' (excellent condition).

Yes, 'Prima!' is used by people of all ages in Germany, from children to adults. It's a universally understood and accepted expression of positivity.

The word 'Prima!' comes from the Latin word 'primus', meaning 'first'. This etymology connects it to the idea of being the best, foremost, or of the highest quality.

Generally, no. 'Prima!' is overwhelmingly positive. The only potential issue is using it in extremely somber or highly formal situations where its enthusiasm might seem out of place. However, it's rarely offensive.

Try to use it whenever you feel genuine approval or happiness about something. Respond to good news with 'Prima!', praise a job well done with 'Prima gemacht!', or describe something you really like as 'Prima!'. The more you use it in appropriate contexts, the more natural it will become.

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