pünktlich

Pünktlich is a German adjective meaning punctual or on time, describing someone or something that occurs at the scheduled or expected moment. In English, it is commonly rendered as punctual or on time. It is used with forms of sein (to be) and with verbs like kommen or erscheinen, as in Die Bahn ist pünktlich or Ich komme pünktlich um acht Uhr.

Etymology and related forms: The word derives from the noun Punkt (point) with the adjectival suffix -lich, producing a sense of belonging to or defined by a point in time. The umlaut in the stem reflects regular German phonological development. The related noun Pünktlichkeit means punctuality, the quality of being on time.

Usage and nuance: Pünktlichkeit is highly valued in German-speaking regions, both in professional contexts and everyday life. Being pünktlich is expected for meetings, public transport, and appointments. It is often contrasted with rechtzeitig (in good time, timely, allowing for some delay) and with gen au (exact, precise), where pünktlich emphasizes adherence to a specific scheduled time.

Examples: Der Zug kommt pünktlich an. Bitte sei pünktlich zum Gespräch. In conversations, one might note that something happened pünktlich, underscoring that it occurred exactly at the planned moment. Pünktlichkeit as a cultural trait is commonly discussed in relation to efficiency, reliability, and social courtesy.