Angelegenheit

Angelegenheit is a feminine German noun meaning a matter, issue, affair, or concern that needs to be addressed or decided. In English it is typically translated as matter or issue, with nuance depending on context. The term is common in both formal and everyday language, especially when referring to a specific topic: in dieser Angelegenheit, eine heikle Angelegenheit.

Etymology and formation: Angelegenheit is derived from the adjective angelegen, meaning relevant, important, or pertaining, combined with a suffix that forms abstract nouns. The current spelling reflects historical developments from Mittelhochdeutsch and Early New High German, with the plural Angelegenheiten.

Usage and nuance: In practice, Angelegenheit often connotes a formal, official, or more complex topic than the everyday synonym Sache. While Sache is broad and neutral, Angelegenheit emphasizes importance or scope and is common in bureaucratic, legal, or administrative language. Related terms include Anliegen (a request or matter brought forward to someone) and Angelegenheiten (the plural form, referring to multiple matters).

Typical phrases and examples: Die Angelegenheit muss geklärt werden. Diese Angelegenheit erfordert eine schnelle Entscheidung. Wir arbeiten an dieser Angelegenheit seit Wochen. Private Angelegenheiten oder geschäftliche Angelegenheiten sind gängige Collocations. In official contexts you may also encounter Staatsangelegenheiten or politische Angelegenheiten to denote matters of state or politics.

Translations and synonyms: Angelegenheit can be rendered as matter, affair, issue, business, or concern, depending on tone and context. It is primarily used when pointing to a concrete topic that calls for action, decision, or clarification. The plural form is Angelegenheiten.