furchtsam

furchtsam is a German adjective meaning "fearful" or "timid". The term is derived from the verb furcht (occasionally spelled frohgt) meaning "fear" and the adjectival suffix -sam, which in German forms adjectives that describe a characteristic or disposition. The word is found in many idiomatic expressions and literary contexts. In modern usage it often carries a connotation of mild or rational apprehension rather than terror. Common collocations include furchtsam sein (to be fearful), furchtsam handeln (to act with fear), and furchtsam für (to be cautious about).

The adjective can also be used in plural form furchtsam (plural attributively) and in comparative and superlative forms furchtsam, furchtsamster. Synonyms are ängstlich, unruhig, verunsichert. Related German words include stellt, which describes a state of being cautious.

In text, furchtsam may be used in narrative to describe characters who exhibit behavioral caution or hesitation in challenging situations. It is frequently used in legal and administrative language to denote a deliberate hesitation or concern, e.g. furchtsam aus Vermutung, indicating that a decision is made with a sense of caution.

The word retains high frequency in German literature and speech, particularly in contexts emphasising psychological states. It is not restricted to negative connotation: a furchtsam approach toward unknown technology or new markets can be advised as prudent. The term is widely understood across German-speaking regions and remains a stable lexical item in contemporary German.