Tragfähiger

Tragfähiger is the comparative form of the German adjective tragfähig, meaning capable of bearing loads without excessive deformation or failure. It is used in civil engineering, construction, geotechnics, and architecture to describe the relative load-bearing capacity of foundations, soils, or structural elements. For example, a tragfähiger Untergrund can carry a given load, whereas a less capable ground may require reinforcement or a different foundation design.

Grammatically, tragfähig is an adjective, with the comparative form tragfähiger and the superlative am tragfähigsten. It declines like other adjectives, so phrases change endings depending on the article and case: ein tragfähiger Boden; der tragfähigere Boden.

Usage notes: The expression emphasizes comparison of bearing capacity rather than absolute values. It frequently appears in feasibility studies, foundation design, and safety assessments. Related terms include Tragfähigkeit (load-bearing capacity), Traglast (carrying load), and Tragfähigkeit von Böden. In practice, determining a tragfähigen Untergrund involves geotechnical investigations, soil tests, and sometimes plate load tests, following relevant standards.