Enigvoudig

Enigvoudig is a Dutch adjective meaning single, sole, or unique. It describes something that occurs in exactly one instance or has no multiplicity. The term is mostly found in formal, technical, or literary contexts; in everyday speech, speakers more often use enkelvoudig, enkel, or uniek depending on the nuance. In mathematics or logic, enigvoudig is used to contrast with meervoudig or veelvoudig, indicating a onefold or sole case.

Etymology and usage notes: the word is formed from enig, meaning only or single, combined with the suffix -voudig, which in related terms conveys multiplicity or repetition (as in veelvoudig, multiple). The resulting sense is roughly onefold or single. Because of its specialized feel, enigvoudig can come across as archaic or pedantic outside precise contexts. Some Dutch dictionaries classify it as formal or rare and advise using simpler alternatives when appropriate.

Examples and nuance: common phrases include an enigvoudige oplossing or an enigvoudig geval, signaling a onefold or sole instance. However, in contemporary usage it is often preferable to use enkelvoudig (or a more natural formulation like een unieke oplossing) to avoid ambiguity or formality.

Related terms: related vocabulary includes enkelvoudig, enkel, uniek, veelvoudig, and meervoudig. While enigvoudig remains correct in certain registers, the more common choices in everyday language are enkelvoudig or uniek, depending on whether the emphasis is on singularity, distinctness, or rarity.