weitaus
Translation
by far, much, far
Examples
Das ist weitaus besser so.
That is far better this way.
Er ist weitaus der klügste Schüler.
He is by far the smartest student.
Grammar Patterns
((+ comparative)) much / far (+ comparative) This is far better. Das ist weitaus besser.
((+ superlative)) by far (+ superlative) He is by far the best. Er ist weitaus der Beste.
Similar Words
Synonyms: bei weitem, erheblich (considerably), viel (much); Antonyms: kaum (hardly), geringfügig (slightly)
Etymology
A compound of 'weit' (wide, far) and 'aus' (out). It literally means 'far out', implying a great distance in comparison.
Memory Tips
It emphasizes a comparison, making something 'far out' ahead of the others. Think of it as 'way out' in front.