wörtlichen

Wörtlichen is a German adjective that translates to "literal" or "verbal" in English. It is used to describe something that is taken or expressed in its most basic or original sense, without any interpretation or embellishment. For example, a wörtlichen translation would adhere strictly to the words of the original text, even if it results in awkward phrasing in the target language. Similarly, a wörtlichen meaning refers to the direct and obvious sense of a word or phrase.

The term can also be used in the context of speech or writing to indicate that something is being repeated exactly as it was said or written. For instance, one might say "Er zitierte sie wörtlich" which means "He quoted her literally." In this sense, it emphasizes the accuracy and fidelity of the reproduction.

In contrast to figurative or metaphorical language, which relies on symbolism and implied meaning, wörtlichen language is direct and unambiguous. It is often employed in legal documents, technical manuals, and other contexts where precision is paramount. Understanding the distinction between wörtlichen and figurative interpretation is crucial for accurate comprehension of written and spoken communication.