Konkretny

Konkretny is a Polish adjective that describes something tangible and perceivable by the senses, or something definite, exact, and well-specified. In everyday use it often corresponds to the English terms concrete or specific, depending on context. The word is commonly applied to objects, information, plans or statements to highlight their measurable or explicit character.

Etymology and usage context: Konkretny derives from the Latin concretus, through the development of technical and scientific vocabulary in European languages, including Polish. It entered common Polish usage in the modern era, expanding from its literal sense of “hardened” or “solidified” to the semantic fields of concreteness and specificity. In contemporary Polish, the term frequently appears in phrases that emphasize clarity and exactness, such as in journalism, education, and business discourse.

Semantic and linguistic notes: The primary distinction is between concrete (konkretny) and abstract (abstrakcyjny) meanings. A concrete noun or concept is one that can be perceived by the senses or specified in detail. In semantic discussions, concrete can contrast with abstract to indicate perceptibility or tangibility. In everyday language, concrete information or a concrete plan implies that the subject is clearly defined and practically applicable.

Examples: Konkretny przykład (a concrete/specific example), konkretne informacje (concrete information), konkretny plan (a definite plan), konkretna sytuacja (a tangible situation).

Inflection and form: Konkretny declines like other Polish adjectives, adapting to gender and number. Examples include: konkretny przykład (masculine singular), konkretna informacja (feminine singular), konkretne dane (neuter/plural). The comparative form can be konkretniejszy (more concrete) and the superlative najkonkretniejszy or najbardziej konkretny.