enige

Enige is a Dutch adjective and determiner that expresses exclusivity or indefiniteness depending on context. It commonly means “the only” or “the sole” when placed before a noun, as in het enige probleem or de enige oplossing. It can also indicate an approximate amount or duration, for example na enige tijd (after some time) or voor enige uren (for a few hours). In clauses it can function predicatively, as in hij is het enige wat telt (he is the only thing that counts).

Grammatical notes: When used before a noun, enige agrees with the definite article de or het (de enige kans, het enige idee). In modern Dutch, this is the standard form; the older form enig appears mainly in fixed expressions or more formal/archaic contexts.

Origin and related terms: Enige derives from Old Dutch enîg, related to other Germanic words for single or sole. It is closely related to the word enig and is distinct in use from alleen (only, solely) and slechts (merely). Enige is the common contemporary form in everyday language.

Usage nuance: Enige emphasizes that only one item exists within a set, whereas alleen emphasizes a broader sense of limitation. In many contexts they are not fully interchangeable, and choosing between them can affect tone and emphasis. Common examples include het enige wat telt and na enige tijd, illustrating its primary uses in contemporary Dutch.