German word

sachlich

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈzaxlɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveobjective

Example

Sie gab eine sachliche Antwort.

She gave an objective answer.

Illustration for sachlich (objective)

More examples

Bei Debatten ist eine sachliche Darstellung wichtig.

An objective presentation is important in debates.

Core concept

A speaker sets aside personal reactions and deals with the relevant facts in a measured way.

Common phrases

  • sachliche Darstellung

    objective presentation

  • sachliche Kritik

    objective criticism

  • sachliche Grundlage

    objective basis

Similar words

objektiv: Grounded in facts and evidence instead of personal views.
neutral: Unbiased in tone, judgment, or presentation.
sachbezogen: Concerned with the relevant subject matter rather than feelings.

Definition in German

Eine neutrale, auf Fakten bezogene Haltung oder Ausdrucksweise, die persönliche Wertungen vermeidet.

Word origin

The adjective sachlich combines Sache with the suffix -lich, meaning 'relating to', and came to describe discussion focused on the matter rather than personal responses.

Usage tips

  • Sachlich can describe a neutral style without proving that every statement is objectively correct, so it also applies to a clear but potentially mistaken account.

Other meanings

  • matter-of-factadjective
  • dispassionateadjective

Opposites

  • voreingenommenbiasedadjective
  • emotionalemotionaladjective

Related words

  • Sachlichkeitobjectivitynoun

Word lists with this word