German word

vernünftig

Pronunciation

IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈnʏnftɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectivereasonable

Example

Das ist ein vernünftiger Plan.

That is a reasonable plan.

Illustration for vernünftig (reasonable)

More examples

Die Firma reagierte vernünftig auf die Krise.

The company responded reasonably to the crisis.

Core concept

A measured solution that makes sense in real life and avoids needless waste.

Common phrases

  • vernünftige Entscheidung

    reasonable decision

  • ein vernünftiger Kompromiss

    a reasonable compromise

  • in vernünftigen Grenzen

    within reasonable limits

Similar words

sinnvoll: Useful for a clear purpose and fitting the situation well.
rational: Reasoned according to logic, evidence, and objective facts.
praktisch: Useful and easy to apply in everyday situations.
überlegt: Thought through carefully before a decision or action.

Definition in German

So handeln oder gestaltet sein, dass es der Vernunft entspricht und sinnvoll, praktisch sowie nicht übertrieben ist

Word origin

The word derives from Vernunft, reason, by adding -ig to form an adjective describing a reason-based quality.

Usage tips

  • The phrase 'Sei vernünftig!' is an admonition meaning 'be sensible' and can sound impatient or reproachful.

Other meanings

  • sensibleadjective
  • wiseadjective

Opposites

  • vernunftwidrigcontrary to reasonadjective
  • illogischillogicaladjective

Related words

  • vernunftgemäßin accordance with reasonadjective
  • vernunftbasiertbased on reasonadjective

Word lists with this word