German word

gerecht

Pronunciation

IPA/gəˈʁɛçt/

Meaning

  • adjectivefair

Example

Das Urteil ist gerecht.

The verdict is fair.

Illustration for gerecht (fair)

More examples

Die Preise werden gerecht verteilt.

The prizes are distributed fairly.

Core concept

A judge applies the same lawful standard to both sides and gives each person the treatment that is deserved.

Common phrases

  • gerecht behandeln

    treat fairly

  • gerecht verteilen

    distribute fairly

  • gerecht beurteilen

    judge fairly

Similar words

fair: Reasonable and even-handed in everyday dealings with people.
unparteiisch: Remaining neutral and showing no preference for either side.
objektiv: Judging from verifiable facts without letting personal feelings interfere.

Definition in German

Entsprechend dem Recht oder der Gerechtigkeit; eine Behandlung oder Entscheidung, die niemandem Unrecht tut.

Word origin

The adjective gerecht developed from Middle High German gereht and shares its Germanic root with German Recht, meaning law or right.

Usage tips

  • In jemandem gerecht werden, gerecht takes a dative object and means to do justice to someone or something.

Other meanings

  • justadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word