sachlich

Sachlich is a German adjective meaning factual, objective, or matter-of-fact, and in some contexts practical or utilitarian. It describes language, analysis, behavior, or decisions that emphasize verifiable facts, avoid personal emotion or subjective interpretation, and address the matter at hand. The adverbial use is sachlich, as in performing an action in a sober, matter-of-fact manner. Common collocations include sachliche Berichte, sachliche Kritik, sachliche Argumentation, and sachliche Sprache.

Etymology and usage: Sachlich derives from Sache (fact, matter) plus the suffix -lich, indicating relation to the matter. It is often contrasted with emotional, speculative, or subjective approaches (gefuhlsbetont, subjektiv). In everyday language it signals a professional, non-ornamental tone, suitable for clear communication in journalism, science, and business.

Historically, the term also names a significant cultural movement: Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) in 1920s Germany. This movement advocated precise, unidealized portrayals of reality in art, literature, journalism, and design, frequently with social critique. Key figures associated with it include Otto Dix and George Grosz, who emphasized clear observation and a sober, documentary style over expressionist sentiment.

Contemporary usage: In modern discourse, sachlich remains a standard descriptor for language and argumentation that is fact-based and nonemotional. It is valued in reporting, analysis, and professional communication. The term can carry a subtle connotation of dryness when applied too rigidly to human or cultural topics, but it remains a core criterion for objective, evidence-driven work.