bloß

Bloß is a German word that functions as an adverb, a particle, and an adjective. It has several related meanings and is common in everyday speech, especially in informal contexts. In usage, it often adds emphasis, limits a statement, or denotes something bare or plain.

As an adverb, bloß commonly means merely, just, or only. It serves to minimize or limit what is being stated: for example, "Das ist bloß ein Spiel" (That’s merely a game) or "Ich will bloß wissen, was passiert" (I just want to know what happens). In this sense it is often interchangeable with nur, though bloß can carry a stronger, more urgent nuance in spoken language.

As an adjective, bloß can describe something as bare or plain, typically in the sense of being merely present or unadorned: "bloße Haut" (bare skin), "bloße Theorie" (mere theory). Here, bloß functions with inflected endings like other adjectives.

As a particle, bloß is used to intensify imperatives or prohibitions: "Hör bloß auf!" (Just stop it!) or "Bleib bloß ruhig!" (Stay calm, now). The expression "bloß nicht" adds a strong negative constraint (not to do something): "Bloß nicht vergessen" (Do not forget, for goodness’ sake).

Etymology traces bloß to Germanic roots related to the idea of being bare or naked, with the sense expanding over time to include “merely” and emphatic usage. In modern German, bloß coexists with nur and with stronger emphases in spoken language, and may sound informal or emphatic depending on context.