adjectiveadverb

sinnvoll

sensible

Etwas hat einen guten Grund oder Zweck und ist nützlich.

Definition & meaning

The adjective sinnvoll is used to describe something that is sensible, meaningful, useful, or purposeful. It indicates that an action, an object, or an idea makes logical sense or fulfills a specific goal effectively.

  1. Sensible or logical: Describing a decision or action that is well-thought-out (e.g., "It is sensible to take an umbrella when it rains").
  2. Meaningful or purposeful: Describing something that provides value or serves a clear purpose (e.g., "A meaningful occupation").

Grammar & Word origin

sinnvoll is an adjective. It is composed of two parts:

  • Sinn: Meaning, sense, or purpose.
  • -voll: A suffix meaning "full of" (equivalent to the English suffix "-ful").

Together, the word literally translates to "full of sense" or "full of meaning."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • sinnvoll can be replaced by vernünftig , which means reasonable or rational.
  • zweckmäßig is used when something is functional or appropriate for a specific purpose.
  • sinnhaft is a more formal term often used in philosophical or abstract contexts.
  • bedeutungsvoll focuses on the "meaning" aspect, implying that something is significant or pregnant with meaning.

Antonyms:

  • sinnlos is the direct antonym, meaning senseless, pointless, or futile.
  • unsinnig describes something that is nonsensical or absurd.
  • zwecklos describes something that is aimless or serves no purpose.

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Examples

Eine sinnvolle Planung spart Zeit und Geld.adjective

Sensible planning saves time and money.

Eine sinnvolle Entscheidung hilft uns allen.adjective

A sensible decision helps us all.

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