öffentlich

Meaning and Usage

"Öffentlich" in German means "public" in English. It is used to describe something that is accessible or available to everyone, such as public transportation ("öffentliche Verkehrsmittel"), public spaces ("öffentliche Plätze"), or public events ("öffentliche Veranstaltungen").

Linguistic Analysis

The word "öffentlich" is an adverb or an adjective. It is derived from the German word "öffnen," which means "to open." The suffix "-lich" in German is similar to the English "-ly," turning the adjective "öffentlich" into an adverb, meaning "publicly."

Comparisons between German and English

The word "öffentlich" closely resembles the English word "public," both in meaning and usage.

Cultural Context

In many German-speaking countries, there is a strong emphasis on public spaces and community activities, making the word "öffentlich" particularly relevant in discussions about public life and communal events.

Example Sentences

• Die öffentlichen Verkehrsmittel in Berlin sind sehr effizient. (The public transportation in Berlin is very efficient.)
• Die Rede des Bürgermeisters wurde öffentlich übertragen. (The mayor's speech was broadcast publicly.)

Memory Tips

To remember the meaning of "öffentlich," think of a public place that is "open" and accessible to everyone.

Additional Vocabulary

• Synonyms: allgemein, gemein, publik
• Antonyms: privat, geheim

Gender and Plural (for nouns)

"Öffentlich" is an adverb or adjective, so it does not have a gender or plural form.

Conjugation (for verbs)

As an adverb or adjective, "öffentlich" does not require conjugation.