Wohltätig

Wohltätig is a German adjective meaning charitable or benevolent, describing actions, institutions, or people that provide help to others in need. It connotes benevolent intent and is commonly used in contexts involving aid, philanthropy, or social welfare.

Etymology: The word is formed from wohl (well, good) and tätig (active, doing), conveying the sense of doing good. It is a standard term in modern German and is not tied to a particular religious tradition.

Usage: Wohltätig modifies nouns such as eine wohltätige Organisation (a charitable organization), wohltätige Zwecke (charitable purposes), or eine wohltätige Veranstaltung (a charity event). The noun Wohltätigkeit expresses the broader concept of benevolence or charitable activity, while a person who acts generously may be described as wohltätig or referred to as a Wohltäter/Wohltäterin (benefactor).

Context: The term is neutral and widely used in media, public discourse, and the non-profit sector. In German legal and policy language, Wohltätigkeit and related terms describe activities pursued for charitable purposes, sometimes with tax-privileged status for organizations that qualify under applicable law.

Overall, wohltätig serves as a general descriptor for benevolent, charitable actions and entities, without implying religious affiliation or a particular programmatic approach.