einzeln

Einzeln is a German word that functions as both an adjective and an adverb. As an adjective, it describes a single, individual item or a separate unit (for example, ein einzelner Teil or einzelne Teile). As an adverb, it means one at a time or individually (die Zutaten wurden einzeln hinzugefügt; die Schritte wurden in einzelnen Schritten durchgeführt).

Declension and usage: When used attributively before a noun, einzeln follows normal adjective endings (ein einzelner Fall, einzelne Fälle, ein einzelnes Stück). In predicative use or as an adverb, it remains unchanged: Die Prüfung erfolgt einzeln.

Origin and forms: The term derives from older Germanic forms such as Middle High German einzel and Old High German equivalents meaning “single” or “separate.” The word is related to the prefix Ein- and appears in compounds like Einzelteil (an individual part) or Einzelstück (one-of-a-kind item).

Nuance and context: “Einzeln” stresses the individuality or separateness of elements, rather than solitude. It is common in technical, procedural, or descriptive contexts to indicate that items should be considered or processed einzeln—one by one or as separate units.

See also: Einzel- prefix; Einzelteil; Einzelstück; alleingelassen (contrast to lone), individuell.