Wesentliches

Wesentliches is a German noun used to denote what is essential or fundamental. It refers to the essential aspects of a thing, its core meaning, or the decisive factors in a discussion. In everyday language, one might say Das Wesentliche ist, dass wir pünktlich sind, meaning The essential thing is that we are on time. The term derives from wesentlich, meaning essential or indispensable, and when used as a substantive it emphasizes the set of matters that truly matter.

In philosophy, Wesentliches is tied to the concept of essence. In Aristotelian metaphysics, the essence (das Wesentliche) comprises the essential properties that define a thing and distinguish it from other kinds; removing or altering these properties would change the thing’s identity. Modern discussions of Wesentliches often contrast it with Unwesentliches (nonessential or accidental properties) and with Wesensmerkmal (an essential characteristic).

In contemporary German usage, the term appears in philosophy, logic, law, and everyday communication to indicate core information or requirements and to separate what is essential from what is merely auxiliary. It can be used to summarize a topic, plan, or argument by focusing on its Wesentliche parts.

See also: Wesensmerkmal, Essenz, Wesentlichkeit, Essentialism.