Ökonomisch

Ökonomisch is a German adjective meaning related to the economy or to economic considerations. It has two broad senses: (1) pertaining to the economy or to the science of economics, such as theories, policy, or phenomena; (2) relating to efficiency or cost-effectiveness in the use of resources.

In academic and policy contexts, ökonomisch describes topics like economic theory, economic policy, or economic development. Examples include ökonomiesche Theorie (economic theory) or ökologische and ökonomische Folgen (economic consequences). In everyday language, it often emphasizes practicality and efficiency, as in ökonomisch sinnvoll (economically sensible) or ökonomische Vorteile (economic advantages).

Etymology and cognates: the word derives from Ökonomie, which denotes the science of the economy or the economy itself. Ökonomie comes from French économie and ultimately from the Greek oikonomia. Its cognates in other languages include the English economic and economical. The German noun for the study or system of the economy is Ökonomie, while wirtschaftlich is more commonly used for matters of business, commerce, or practical economic activity.

Usage notes: ökonomisch and wirtschaftlich can overlap in meaning, but without strict equivalence. Ökonomisch tends to emphasize theoretical, analytical, or efficiency-related aspects of resources and decisions, whereas wirtschaftlich often refers to the broader practical or commercial functioning of an economy or enterprise. Related terms include Ökonom (economist) and ökonomische Wissenschaften.