Stil

Stil is a term used in several Germanic languages, notably German, Dutch, Norwegian, and Danish, to denote style, manner, or distinctive expression. The English word style and the related Dutch stijl or Norwegian stil share the same semantic core: the particular way in which something is produced or presented. In this sense, Stil functions as a broad concept spanning arts, design, communication, and everyday behavior.

In art, architecture, and design, Stil names the recognizable look or approach of a period, movement, or creator. Examples include architectural styles such as Gothic Stil or Barockstil, and design or fashion styles that define a time or sensibility. Within graphic design and typography, the term can appear as Schriftstil or Gestaltungsstil, referring to the treatment of text and overall visual presentation.

In literature and rhetoric, Stil describes the author’s manner of expression—the tone, rhythm, and diction that yield a particular voice. Stilmittel (rhetorical devices) and Stilistik (the study of style) are areas of focus for evaluating and shaping written expression. The concept of Stil also extends to everyday language, where phrases like guter Stil (good style) or stilvolle Erscheinung (stylish appearance) signal perceived taste or decorum.

See also: Stilmittel, Stilrichtung, Schriftstil, Stilistik.