freundlich

Freundlich is a German adjective meaning "friendly" or "kind" in manner, appearance, or disposition. It is used to describe people, behavior, and environments that convey warmth, courtesy, or generosity. The adverbial use is also common: "Sie lächelte freundlich" means "She smiled in a friendly way."

Etymology: The word is formed from the noun "Freund" (friend) with the suffix "-lich", which yields "characteristic of a friend" or "friendly".

Usage notes: In attributive position with indefinite article, the form is "freundlicher" for masculine nominative: "ein freundlicher Mann"; with other genders/cases the endings follow standard German adjective declension. Common collocations include "ein freundlicher Empfang" (a friendly reception), "eine freundliche Bitte" (a courteous request), and "freundliche Grüße" (kind regards).

Compared to synonyms: "nett" is a softer, more casual term; "herzlich" conveys warmth; "gütig" or "zuvorkommend" emphasize generosity or helpfulness. The noun form "Freundlichkeit" means "friendliness" or "kindness."

See also: In German-speaking cultures, "freundlich" is a standard descriptor in customer service, hospitality, and public discourse, and appears widely in labels, signage, and requests to signal politeness.