German word

notfalls

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈnoːtˌfals/

Meaning

  • adverbif necessary

Example

Ich nehme notfalls ein Taxi.

I'll take a taxi if necessary.

Illustration for notfalls (if necessary)

More examples

Ich werde notfalls selbst eingreifen.

I will intervene myself if necessary.

Core concept

A second route available when circumstances demand a last-resort solution.

Common phrases

  • notfalls eingreifen

    intervene if necessary

  • notfalls handeln

    act if necessary

  • notfalls in Kauf nehmen

    accept if necessary

Similar words

falls nötig: When action or preparation is necessary.
zur Not: As a final option when all other solutions fail.
gegebenenfalls: If circumstances make a response appropriate.
bei Bedarf: Whenever a need arises.

Definition in German

Falls nötig; im Bedarfsfall als Option oder letzte Möglichkeit.

Word origin

The adverb notfalls developed from the combination of Not and falls, a conditional word meaning 'if', with the sense 'if there is need'.

Usage tips

  • Notfalls often means 'if necessary', while im Notfall more directly refers to an actual emergency.

Other meanings

  • in an emergencyadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Notlageemergencynoun
  • Notfallplanemergency plannoun

Word lists with this word