Erfordernis

Erfordernis is a neuter noun in German meaning requirement, prerequisite, or necessity. It denotes something that is necessary to achieve a result, complete a process, or comply with rules. In formal or technical language, Erfordernis is used to point to a criterion that must be satisfied. Common phrases include das Erfordernis erfüllen, den Erfordernissen entsprechen, or ein Erfordernis festlegen. The term is often found in administrative, legal, technical, and organizational contexts, where it serves to articulate a condition or standard that governs decisions or actions.

Etymology and nuance: "Erfordernis" derives from the verb "erfordern" (to require, to necessitate) with the abstract noun suffix -nis. The sense emphasizes the necessity arising from circumstances or rules, rather than a personal want. It tends to be more formal or neutral than "Notwendigkeit" or "Bedürfnis" and often contrasts with "Voraussetzung" (precondition) which marks a condition that must be met before something else is possible.

Usage and examples: In law and administration one speaks of Erfordernisse, e.g., "Das Erfordernis der Zustimmung der Behörde" or "Erfordernisse des Projekts". In science or engineering, one might refer to "technische Erfordernisse" or "Erfordernis zur Datensicherheit". Synonyms include Notwendigkeit (necessity), Voraussetzung (condition), and Bedürfnis (need), with subtle differences in emphasis. The term is generally used for objectively verifiable conditions rather than subjective desires. Plural: Erfordernisse; possessive forms: das Erfordernis, die Erfordernisse.