wohltätigt

Wohltätigt is a form of the German verb wohltätigen and is mainly found in historical or formal contexts. The word as such is rare in everyday speech, and the more common adjective is wohltätig, meaning benevolent, charitable or beneficial. The related noun Wohltätigkeit denotes charitable action or benevolence, and Wohltäter refers to a benefactor, someone who performs charity.

Etymology and meaning

Wohltätigkeit comes from the combination of wohl (well, good) and Tätigkeit (activity), capturing the idea of doing good for others. The adjective wohltätig describes entities, acts, or institutions that aim to help or support people in need. In modern German, typical usages include wohltätige Spenden, wohltätige Organisationen or wohltätige Zwecke, emphasizing charitable aims.

Usage and context

Wohltätigts usage is largely confined to historical, religious, or literary texts. In contemporary language, speakers usually use wohltätig or Wohltätigkeit to express benevolence or charitable activity. Phrases such as eine wohltätige Stiftung, eine wohltätige Organisation or wohltätige Zwecke are common, as are references to Wohltätigkeit im Gemeinwesen. The term can also appear in discussions of philanthropy, social welfare, and charitable fundraising.

Relation to related terms

Wohltätigkeit describes the broader concept of charity and benevolence, while Wohltäter denotes a benefactor. The modern equivalents in many contexts are charitable, philanthropic, or humanitarian, depending on nuance. The past participle form wohltätigt is rare and chiefly of historical interest, with contemporary usage favoring wohltätig or Wohltätigkeit.