Hoheitlich

Hoheitlich is an adjective in German that describes actions, powers, or characteristics connected with state sovereignty or public authority. It is used to indicate that something is performed by the state or another public institution and typically carries a public-law character. In this sense, hoheitlich contrasts with activities carried out by private individuals or entities under private law.

Etymology and scope: The term derives from Hoheit, meaning sovereignty or high authority, with the suffix -lich to form an adjective. In legal and political language, hoheitlich denotes official, sovereign, or public-authority action rather than private or commercial activity.

Usage in law and language: In administrative law, phrases like hoheitliche Maßnahme or hoheitliche Tätigkeit refer to acts by public authorities, such as issuing licenses, enforcing regulations, imposing penalties, or expropriations. The expression hoheitliche Gewalt names the sovereign powers of the state, traditionally including legislative, executive, and judicial functions. More generally, hoheitlich can describe statements or decisions by public bodies that carry formal authority.

Context and nuance: The term is common in legal texts and formal journalism, signaling a public-law character or official capacity. It emphasizes the official or state-backed nature of actions, as opposed to private or non-public actions. Related terms include öffentlich-rechtlich, behördlich, and staatlich, while hoheitlich often carries a stronger connotation of sovereignty and formal authority.

See also: Hoheitsgebiet, Hoheitszeichen, Hoheitsrechte.