kafka
word
Definition
Kafka usually refers to Franz Kafka, a famous 20th-century writer known for surreal, nightmarish stories that often express feelings of confusion and helplessness. The word can also describe situations that are bizarre, illogical, or oppressive, similar to those in his works.
Usage & Nuances
Capitalized as 'Kafka' for the writer; used as an adjective ('Kafkaesque') for situations similar to his stories. In informal speech, saying something is 'Kafka' or 'Kafkaesque' means it's confusing or absurd in a stressful way. Don't confuse with technical terms (like Apache Kafka, software).
Example Sentences
Kafka was born in Prague in 1883.
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Many people study Kafka in literature classes.
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The stories by Kafka are often strange and dreamlike.
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Honestly, dealing with government paperwork sometimes feels totally Kafka.
natural
That movie last night was so confusing—it was like something straight out of Kafka.
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He used to joke that his morning commute was a real Kafka experience.
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