geringsten

Geringsten is the superlative form of the German adjective gering, meaning small, minor, or of little importance. It is used to denote the least degree within a defined group or comparison. When declined with definite articles or in standard declension, it follows the regular German adjective endings: der geringste Mann (masculine nominative), die geringste Frau (feminine nominative), das geringste Kind (neuter nominative), die geringsten Werte (plural nominative). The form geringsten appears in masculine singular accusative den geringsten Wert and masculine singular dative dem geringsten Wert, while other cases and genders use corresponding endings.

Etymology and usage notes: The word is built from the adjective gering with the common superlative suffix -sten. In many contexts it serves as a precise way to indicate the absolute lowest degree within a group, whether referring to quantity, importance, risk, or quality. The adverbial form am geringsten means to the smallest extent or most insignificantly.

Noun use: In everyday language, the related noun das Geringste (capitalized) is used to refer to the smallest thing or the least important matter in a given situation. For example, “Das Geringste kann schon problematisch sein” uses the noun sense, distinct from the attributive adjective form.

Examples: Der geringste Fehler kann fatale Folgen haben. Wir möchten das geringste Risiko vermeiden. Am geringsten überrascht mich seine Reaktion.