adjective

unerlässlich

essential · indispensable

Etwas, das unbedingt gebraucht wird und nicht weggelassen werden kann.

Definition & meaning

Unerlässlich means essential, indispensable, or absolutely necessary—something that cannot be omitted or done without.

Gute Vorbereitung ist unerlässlich. — Good preparation is essential.
Es ist unerlässlich, die Regeln einzuhalten. — It is essential to follow the rules.

Grammar & Word origin

Unerlässlich is an adjective. It can appear before a noun with the appropriate adjective ending, or after a linking verb such as sein (“to be”). Its comparative forms are unerlässlicher and am unerlässlichsten, though they are less common because the word already expresses a strong degree of necessity.

The word combines the prefix un- (“not”) with erlässlich, conveying the idea of something that cannot be dispensed with. It is related to lassen (“to leave” or “to let”) and erlassen (“to waive” or “to remit”).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

notwendig — “necessary”; a broad, neutral alternative.
nötig — “needed” or “necessary”; often more everyday in tone.
unentbehrlich — “indispensable”; emphasizes that something cannot be done without.
unabdingbar — “indispensable” or “non-negotiable”; often stresses a firm requirement.
essenziell — “essential”; often used for a fundamental or central element.