German word

eilig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈaɪ̯lɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveurgent

Example

Ich habe eine eilige Nachricht.

I have an urgent message.

Illustration for eilig (urgent)

More examples

Aus eiligem Anlass verschiebt sich das Treffen auf morgen.

Due to urgent circumstances, the meeting is being postponed until tomorrow.

Core concept

A situation marked by quick movement and little time for delay.

Common phrases

  • aus eiligem Anlass

    due to urgent circumstances

  • eine eilige Bitte

    an urgent request

Similar words

dringend: Requiring immediate attention because leaving it unresolved is not an option.
akut: Requiring rapid action because a crisis or harmful worsening is imminent.
hastig: Done in a hurried, restless way that can sacrifice care and attention.
schnell: Moving or happening at a high speed.

Definition in German

So, dass schnelle Handlung oder Entscheidung nötig ist

Word origin

The word combines Eile, haste, with the productive suffix -ig, so its form means connected with or marked by haste.

Usage tips

  • Eilig can describe something done in a hurry, whereas dringend can describe something that must be dealt with even when speed is not the main focus.

Other meanings

  • hurriedadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • eiligstmost urgentlyadverb
  • Eilpostexpress mailnoun

Word lists with this word