fijnzinniger

Fijnzinniger is the comparative form of the Dutch adjective fijnzinnig, used to describe someone or something with greater refined sensitivity or discernment. Fijnzinnig itself means having a subtle perception, refined taste, or delicate judgment. As a result, fijnzinniger characterizes an increased ability to notice nuance in art, conversation, behavior, or decisions, as well as a higher level of delicacy in taste or sensibility.

Origin and formation: The word combines fijn (fine, delicate) with zinnig (sensible, reasonable). The comparative is formed with the suffix -er, yielding fijnzinniger. The superlative is fijnzinnigst, or more commonly meest fijnzinnig.

Usage: In contemporary Dutch, fijnzinniger is mainly found in literary or formal contexts. In everyday speech, speakers often prefer synonyms such as gevoeliger (more sensitive), scherper (sharper), subtieler (more subtle), or verfijnder (more refined). Nevertheless, fijnzinniger can emphasize a higher degree of discernment in fields like art criticism, philosophy, or negotiation.

Examples:

- Haar fijnzinniger oordeel maakte haar tot een gewaardeerde kunstcriticus.

- Een fijnzinniger luisteraar merkte de subtiele nuances op.

See also:

- fijnzinnig

- subtiel

- gevoelig

- scherpzinnig

- verfijnder