Notwendigkeit

/noːtˈvɛndɪçkaɪ̯t/
necessity

Die Notwendigkeit dieser Maßnahme steht außer Frage.

The necessity of this measure is beyond question.


formal

The state or fact of being required, indispensable, or unavoidable.

Wir müssen die wirtschaftliche Notwendigkeit dieser Entscheidung anerkennen.

We must recognize the economic necessity of this decision.

Usually used with the genitive case or prepositions 'von' or 'für'.

Related Phrases

aus der Not eine Tugend machenidiom
to make a virtue of necessity

Word Origin

From Middle High German 'nōtwendig' (turning away distress), composed of 'Not' (need, distress) + 'wenden' (to turn) + '-keit' (noun suffix).

Usage Notes

A formal abstract noun. In German, it carries a strong logical or practical imperative. Always feminine (die Notwendigkeit).

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