German Conversation · Level 117
45 words
German word
Geltung
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈgɛltʊŋ/
Meaning
- feminine nounvalidity
Example
Die Geltung des Gesetzes ist wichtig.
The validity of the law is important.
More examples
In manchen Kreisen genießt sie große soziale Geltung.
In some circles, she enjoys great social prestige.
Core concept
A rule, idea, or currency has Geltung when it counts in the real world and carries recognized weight.
Common phrases
soziale Geltung
social prestige
Geltung gewinnen
gain prestige
Similar words
Wirksamkeit: The extent to which a policy or measure achieves its intended result.
Gültigkeit: The legally valid status of something meeting all formal requirements.
Anwendbarkeit: The possibility of applying a rule or law to a real situation.
Rechtskraft: The binding finality of a legal judgment or decision.
Definition in German
Die Wirksamkeit oder Durchsetzungskraft einer Norm, eines Gesetzes oder einer Regel in der Praxis.
Word origin
Geltung is an inherited Germanic noun from gelten, whose older senses include 'be worth' and 'count'; it developed meanings of validity, currency, and prestige.
Usage tips
- Geltung often describes practical or social force, whereas Gültigkeit more narrowly describes formal validity or legal correctness.
Other meanings
- currencynoun
- prestigenoun
Opposites
- Unwirksamkeitinvaliditynoun
Related words
- Geltungsdauerperiod of validitynoun
- geltendvalidadjective