prípadný

Prípadný is a Slovak adjective meaning possible, prospective, or contingent. It describes something that could occur under a given set of circumstances or relates to a hypothetical case or scenario. In everyday and formal usage it often qualifies objects, issues, or actions as not definite but potentially relevant, for example in phrases like prípadný problém (a possible problem) or prípadné otázky (any questions that may arise). The term is common in official, technical, and legal language, where it helps present contingencies without asserting certainty. It is distinct from pravdepodobný (probable) and možný (possible) in that prípadný emphasizes conditionality tied to a particular case or situation.

Etymology: The word is derived from the noun prípad meaning case, instance, or situation, with the adjectival suffix -ný. A cognate form exists in Czech (případný). The sense in Slovak often overlaps with možný but carries the nuance of dependance on a specific circumstance.

Morphology: Like other adjectives, prípadný inflects to match gender, number, and case. Common forms include prípadný (masculine singular), prípadná (feminine singular), and prípadné (neuter singular); plural forms include prípadní (masculine animate) and prípadné (feminine and neuter). The adverbial form is prípadne, meaning possibly or if necessary.

Usage note: Prípadný is versatile in formal prose for outlining potential issues, requirements, or actions without committing to them as certain. It is often paired with nouns describing hypothetical situations and may be contrasted with stronger terms indicating likelihood or necessity.