der Anlaß, Anlässe
occasion
Ein Grund oder eine Situation, wegen der etwas geschieht oder getan wird.
The German word "Anlaß" (modern spelling: Anlass) is a masculine noun meaning occasion, reason, or cause.
- Anlaß is composed of:
- Laß (related to lassen: to let, allow – but here it's part of the noun form, historical origin)
In present usage, it generally refers to an event or circumstance that prompts something, e.g., a celebration, reason, or motive.
Similar words:
- Grund (reason, cause)
- Angelegenheit (matter, affair, occasion)
- Ereignis (event)
Differences:
- Anlaß specifically emphasizes the reason or occasion for an action or event.
- Grund is more general as a cause or motive.
- Ereignis is the event itself rather than the reason for it.
- Angelegenheit denotes more a matter or concern rather than just the cause.
Anlaß highlights the specific motivating occasion rather than the general cause or event.
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Examples
Der Anlass für die Feier ist mein Geburtstag.noun
The occasion for the celebration is my birthday.
Aus besonderem Anlass kommen heute alle Kollegen zusammen.noun
For a special occasion all colleagues are coming together today.
Zu einem besonderen Anlass tragen die Gäste festliche Kleidung.noun
For a special occasion, the guests wear festive clothing.
Zu welchem Anlass hast du das Geschenk gekauft?noun
For what occasion did you buy the gift?
Aus besonderem Anlass bleiben wir heute länger auf.noun
We're staying up later today for a special occasion.
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