sinnvolles

Sinnvolles is the neuter singular form of the German adjective sinnvoll, used to describe things that have meaning, purpose, or sensible value. In typical usage it appears in phrases such as ein sinnvolles Leben, sinnvolles Handeln, or eine sinnvolle Entscheidung. The noun form das Sinnvolle is also used to refer to meaningful content or to what is meaningful in a given situation.

Etymology and form

The term is derived from Sinn (sense, meaning, purpose) and Voll (full of). As an adjective it inflects to match the noun it modifies, for example sinnvolles Leben (neuter, nominative/accusative). When nominalized, the concept can be referred to as das Sinnvolle.

Usage and nuance

Sinnvolles conveys more than mere practicality; it implies justification by meaning, value, or purpose. It is often contrasted with unsinnvolles or sinnlos, which express that something lacks sense or value. In everyday language it can describe actions, plans, decisions, or objects that are considered worthwhile or coherent with one’s goals. In philosophy, psychology, and design, the idea of what is sinnvolles or meaningful can relate to a person’s sense of purpose or the usefulness of a given approach.

Related forms and contrasts

Related adjectives include sinnvoll and bedeutsam; antonyms include unsinnig and sinnlos. The word can function as an attributive adjective or be used in its noun form das Sinnvolle to denote the concept of meaning or meaningful content.

See also: Sinn, Sinnlos, Sinn des Lebens.