German word

unerlässlich

Pronunciation

IPA/ˌʊnɛɐ̯ˈlɛslɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveessential

Example

Das ist unerlässlich.

That is essential.

Illustration for unerlässlich (essential)

More examples

In Verhandlungen ist Vertrauen oft unerlässlich.

In negotiations, trust is often essential.

Core concept

A key condition that leaves no workable alternative to its presence.

Common phrases

  • unerlässlich bei Verhandlungen

    essential in negotiations

  • unerlässlich für klare Kommunikation

    essential for clear communication

  • unerlässlich im beruflichen Alltag

    essential in everyday professional life

Similar words

wesentlich: Forming the central or most important part of something.
notwendig: Needed to achieve a particular goal or result.
zwingend: Leaving no choice but to comply or proceed in a certain way.
essenziell: Needed to support a basic function or structure.

Definition in German

Für das Zustandekommen oder Fortbestehen von etwas absolut notwendig; nicht entbehrlich.

Word origin

The word is a negative un- formation of erlässlich, which is connected with erlassen and the suffix -lich; unerlässlich therefore denotes what cannot be left out.

Usage tips

  • Unerlässlich is stronger and more formal than nötig, especially when stating a strict requirement or prerequisite.

Opposites

Related words

  • Unerlässlichkeitindispensabilitynoun

Word lists with this word