schier
Translation
almost, nearly, sheer, pure
Examples
Die Aufgabe ist schier unmöglich.
The task is almost impossible.
Das ist der schiere Wahnsinn.
That is sheer madness.
Grammar Patterns
schier + adjective/adverb almost ... The task is schier impossible.
attributive adjective sheer ... That is der schiere Wahnsinn.
Similar Words
Synonyms: fast, beinahe (almost); rein, pur (pure)
Etymology
From Middle High German 'schīr' meaning 'clear, bright, pure'. Cognate with English 'sheer'.
Memory Tips
The sound is very similar to the English word 'sheer'. Think of 'sheer madness' to remember 'der schiere Wahnsinn'.