01
beweglich
flexible / movable
Having the ability to move or be moved; not rigid or fixed.
example
Nach der Operation war sein Knie nur noch eingeschränkt beweglich.
After the operation, his knee had only limited mobility.
beweglich
flexible / movable
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word formation
The adjective is formed from the verb 'bewegen' (to move) and the suffix '-lich' (-able/-ly). It literally means 'able to move or be moved,' and this basic idea appears in all its meanings.
EXAMPLE
Die neuen Roboterarme sind extrem beweglich.
The new robotic arms are extremely flexible.
Context clue
The noun that 'beweglich' (flexible / movable) describes reveals the exact meaning. A 'bewegliches Gelenk' (flexible joint) is physically flexible, a 'beweglicher Geist' (flexible mind) is mentally flexible, and a 'beweglicher Feiertag' (moveable holiday) is flexible in terms of time.
EXAMPLE
Er ist 90 Jahre alt, aber sein Geist ist immer noch sehr beweglich.
He is 90 years old, but his mind is still very flexible.
Fixed expression
The combination 'geistig beweglich' (mentally flexible) is a very common fixed expression. It describes a person who can think quickly and adapt to new ideas.
EXAMPLE
Regelmäßiges Lesen und Lernen hilft dabei, geistig beweglich zu bleiben.
Regular reading and learning help you stay mentally flexible.
Technical language
In legal and business contexts, 'beweglich' (movable) describes property that is not permanently attached to a place. Typical terms are 'bewegliches Vermögen' (movable assets) or 'bewegliche Güter' (movable goods).
EXAMPLE
Zum beweglichen Vermögen zählen zum Beispiel Autos, Schmuck und Bargeld.
Movable assets include cars, jewelry, and cash, for example.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'beweglicher Feiertag' (moveable holiday) refers to a holiday whose date changes every year, such as Easter or Pentecost.
EXAMPLE
Der Karfreitag ist ein beweglicher Feiertag, der immer vor Ostern liegt.
Good Friday is a moveable holiday that always falls before Easter.
Compare with
beweglich vs fest
firm / fixed
'fest' and 'beweglich' form a contrast when something cannot be moved or, on the other hand, can be moved. A 'festes Teil' (fixed part) sits securely and cannot be loosened easily. A 'bewegliches Teil' (movable part) can move or be moved. With times, there is a similar contrast: a 'fester Termin' (fixed appointment/date) is precisely determined, while a 'beweglicher Termin' or 'beweglicher Feiertag' (moveable holiday) can change. Learners may confuse the words because both occur with objects and with schedules. Pay attention: 'fest' here does not mean freely movable, but fixed or determined.
beweglich
Der Arm der Lampe ist beweglich, deshalb kann man das Licht gut einstellen.
The arm of the lamp is movable, so you can adjust the light well.
fest
Die Schraube ist fest und lässt sich nicht drehen.
The screw is tight and cannot be turned.
In real life
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