geeignet

Geeignet is a German adjective meaning "suitable" or "appropriate" for a specific purpose. It describes how well something meets requirements or is fit to perform a task, an activity, or a function. The term is frequently used with the preposition für to specify the intended use, as in "Dieses Werkzeug ist geeignet für Reparaturen." It can also appear with zum or zu when referring to an activity, for example "geeignet zum Kochen" or "geeignet zu wissenschaftlichen Zwecken." In some contexts it may be used with als to designate a role, though this is less common.

Grammatically, geeignet is declined like other adjectives in attributive position: "ein geeignetes Werkzeug," "eine geeignete Methode," "geeignete Optionen." In predicative use after forms of sein, it remains unchanged in meaning, as in "Das Produkt ist geeignet" or "Der Antrag ist geeignet." The expression is widely used in technical, instructional, legal, and administrative language to indicate compliance with criteria or standards.

Etymology and related terms: geeignet is built from the verb eignen with the prefix ge-, and expresses suitability or fitness. The noun form denoting the concept is Eignung (not "Geeignetheit"). Synonyms include passend, angemessen, tauglich, and adäquat, each with subtle nuances: geeignet emphasizes fit for a purpose; tauglich stresses practical operability; passend or angemessen focus on appropriateness in context or standards.

Usage notes: In product descriptions, safety guidelines, exams, and quality criteria, geeignet signals that something meets required specifications. The phrase "geeignet für" is the most common construction, while "geeignet zum" is also used for activities or tasks.