Adjektivwort
Adjektivwort is a term used in German linguistics to describe words that function as adjectives. These words describe or qualify nouns, providing more information about their qualities, characteristics, or state. Adjektivwörter can appear before a noun, modifying it directly, or after a linking verb, functioning as a predicate adjective. Examples include "schön" (beautiful), "groß" (big), "alt" (old), and "glücklich" (happy). In German grammar, Adjektivwörter can be declined, meaning their endings change depending on the gender, number, and case of the noun they modify, as well as the grammatical context in which they appear. This declension is a key feature distinguishing them from other word classes. While the term Adjektivwort is sometimes used interchangeably with Adjektiv, it specifically emphasizes the word's function rather than its inherent classification. Understanding Adjektivwörter is crucial for comprehending German sentence structure and the accurate modification of nouns.