unsinnig

Unsinnig is a German adjective meaning lacking sense or rational justification; it can also be used predicatively in constructions such as "Es ist unsinnig, ..." In English, the closest equivalents are nonsensical, absurd, or senseless.

Etymology: The term is formed with the negation prefix un- and Sinn, meaning sense, literally "without sense." It is related to Sinn (sense) and to synonyms such as sinnlos and absurd.

Usage: Unsinnig is typically used to dismiss arguments, plans, or claims as irrational or poorly reasoned. Examples: "Es ist unsinnig, so viel Geld auszugeben" (It is nonsensical to spend so much money), "eine unsinnige Behauptung" (a nonsensical claim). The tone can range from strongly critical to mildly humorous, depending on context. It contrasts with sinnlos, which emphasizes pointlessness or lack of purpose rather than a lack of justification.

See also: Sinn, Sinnlos, Unsinn, Nonsense.