enkelhet

Enkelhet is a term used in Dutch-language discussions to denote the quality or state of being single, sole, or indivisible. The word is typically treated as an abstract noun formed from enkel, meaning single or only, together with a noun-forming suffix such as -het. In practice, enkelhet appears mainly in theoretical or linguistic contexts rather than as everyday vocabulary.

Etymology and sensemaking. The core idea behind enkelhet is the concentration of a property into a single unit or identity. Because the Dutch lexicon already has related terms like enkelvoud (singular form or grammatical number) and eenheid (unity or unit), enkelhet is often positioned as a higher-level or more philosophical notion of indivisibility or singularity.

Usage and examples. In theoretical writing, enkelhet can be used to discuss whether a system should be treated as a single entity or as a collection of parts. For instance, a philosophy of science text might ask whether a composite object possesses enkelhet or if its parts preserve distinct identities. Its usefulness depends on clear definitions, since the term is not widely standardized.

Relation to other concepts and limitations. Enkelhoet is distinct from enkelvoud, which concerns grammatical number, and from eenheid, which denotes a unit or coherent whole. Because enkelhet lacks a fixed definition in common usage, its interpretation can vary by author, leading to potential ambiguity. Some writers prefer more established terms like singulariteit or eenheid to avoid confusion.

See also: enkelvoud, eenheid, singulariteit, identiteit.