Suffix: lich - Wort des Tages

German Suffix: -lich

A Common German Adjective Suffix

The suffix -lich is a prevalent and versatile suffix in the German language, primarily used to form adjectives. It is similar to the English suffix -ly or -like, indicating a characteristic, quality, or relation to something.

Usage and Formation

Adjectives:

The suffix -lich is used to create adjectives from nouns, verbs, or other adjectives, suggesting a characteristic or quality. For example:

freundlich (friendly) from der Freund (friend)
möglich (possible) from die Möglichkeit (possibility)
natürlich (natural) from die Natur (nature)

Temporal and Situational Contexts:

It is also used to form adjectives that describe temporal or situational contexts:

täglich (daily) from der Tag (day)
jährlich (yearly) from das Jahr (year)
wöchentlich (weekly) from die Woche (week)

Abstract Concepts:

The suffix -lich can be used to form adjectives that describe abstract qualities or states:

glücklich (happy) from das Glück (happiness)
menschlich (human) from der Mensch (human being)
künstlerisch (artistic) from der Künstler (artist)

Grammatical Considerations

When forming adjectives with -lich, the resulting word typically follows standard German adjective declension patterns. This means that the adjective will change its ending based on the gender, case, and number of the noun it modifies.

Examples in Sentences

Ein freundlicher Mensch (A friendly person)
Eine mögliche Lösung (A possible solution)
Ein natürliches Verhalten (A natural behavior)

Related Suffixes

The suffix -lich is related to other German suffixes that form adjectives, such as -ig (e.g., lustig – funny) and -bar (e.g., machbar – doable). Each suffix has its nuances and specific contexts where it is more appropriate.

Conclusion

The suffix -lich is an integral part of the German language, enriching it by allowing the formation of descriptive adjectives that convey characteristics, qualities, and temporal contexts. Its usage spans everyday language, abstract concepts, and situational descriptions, making it a versatile and essential component of German grammar.

ADJEKTIVE –> SUFFIX