German word

kollektiv

Pronunciation

IPA/kɔlɛˈktiːf/

Meaning

  • adjectivecollective

Example

Wir brauchen eine kollektive Lösung.

We need a collective solution.

Illustration for kollektiv (collective)

More examples

Die Gewerkschaften führen kollektive Verhandlungen.

The trade unions conduct collective negotiations.

Core concept

A whole group acts, decides, or has a quality with its members viewed together.

Common phrases

  • kollektiv verhandeln

    negotiate collectively

  • kollektive Identität

    collective identity

  • kollektive Solidarität

    collective solidarity

Similar words

gemeinsam: Existing or happening together among several people or things.
gemeinschaftlich: Carried out jointly by members of a group or community.
kooperativ: Ready to work with others to achieve something.
solidarisch: Standing by others and helping them in difficult circumstances.

Definition in German

Bezeichnet gemeinsame Eigenschaften, Entscheidungen oder Handlungen einer Gruppe.

Word origin

Kollektiv is a borrowing based on Latin collectivus, which is related to colligere, meaning to gather together.

Usage tips

  • As a noun, das Kollektiv is neuter and means a collective or group, so it is capitalized in German.

Other meanings

  • jointadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • kollektivistischcollectivistadjective
  • Kollektivistcollectivistnoun
  • Kollektivitätcollectivitynoun

Word lists with this word