Suffix: reich

German Suffix: -reich

A Common German Adjective Suffix

The suffix -reich is a descriptive suffix in the German language, primarily used to form adjectives. It conveys the meaning of being “rich in” or “abundant in” something, similar to the English suffix -rich or -ful.

Usage and Formation

Adjectives:

The suffix -reich is used to create adjectives from nouns, indicating that something is rich in or characterized by the noun’s quality or substance. For example:

ideenreich (rich in ideas) from die Idee (idea)
erfolgreich (successful) from der Erfolg (success)
erlebnisreich (eventful) from das Erlebnis (experience)

Descriptive and Qualitative Contexts:

It is often used in contexts related to descriptions of qualities, states, and characteristics:

farbenreich (colorful) from die Farbe (color)
geschichtenreich (rich in stories) from die Geschichte (story)
abwechslungsreich (varied) from die Abwechslung (variety)

Grammatical Considerations

When forming adjectives with -reich, 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 ideenreiches Konzept (A concept rich in ideas)
Eine erfolgreiche Kampagne (A successful campaign)
Ein erlebnisreiches Wochenende (An eventful weekend)

Related Suffixes

The suffix -reich is related to other German suffixes that form adjectives, such as -voll (e.g., liebevoll – loving) and -ig (e.g., mutig – brave). Each suffix has its nuances and specific contexts where it is more appropriate.

Conclusion

The suffix -reich is an important part of the German language, allowing the formation of descriptive adjectives that convey richness or abundance of certain qualities or substances. Its usage spans descriptive, qualitative, and characteristic contexts, making it a versatile and essential component of German grammar.

ADJEKTIVE –> SUFFIX