dreifach

Dreifach is a German word that functions as an adjective, an adverb, or a noun to express a quantity or multiplier of three. It denotes that something is threefold or three times as much as a reference. For example, a dreifache Belohnung means a reward that is threefold, and dreifache Menge describes three times as much. As an adverb, it can appear in phrases such as dreifach so groß, meaning three times as large.

Grammatically, dreifach is declined like a regular adjective when it precedes a noun, with endings that reflect gender and case (for example, dreifache Belohnung, dreifachen Preis, dreifaches Maß). When used as a noun, it can appear as das Dreifache to denote the threefold amount; plural forms are infrequent and generally context‑dependent.

Etymologically, the term is a compound of drei (three) and Fach (fold). It shares a family with other numerically formed compounds such as zweifach (twofold) and vielfach (manyfold). The suffix conveys a multiplicative sense and is common in German to describe degrees, quantities, or intensities.

Common usage covers mathematics, science, economics, and everyday language. In mathematics or physics, it can describe a threefold integral or a threefold symmetry. In practical contexts, it is used to quantify increases, capacities, or comparisons, such as threefold increases in yield or threefold costs. While formal in tone, dreifach remains widely understood in both technical and colloquial German.

See also: zweifach, dreiviertel (quarter), vielfach.