einzigartig
unique
Existing only once; such that there is nothing comparable.
EXAMPLE
Jede Schneeflocke hat eine einzigartige Struktur.
Every snowflake has a unique structure.
einzigartig
unique
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Meanings
einzigartig
unique
Exceptionally good, remarkable, or especially impressive.
EXAMPLE
Die Aussicht vom Berggipfel war ein einzigartiges Erlebnis.
The view from the mountain peak was a unique experience.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'einzig' (only/sole) and the suffix '-artig' (-like). So it literally means 'in the manner of the only one' or 'as if there is only one of it'.
EXAMPLE
Dieses handgemachte Schmuckstück ist wirklich einzigartig.
This handmade piece of jewelry is truly unique.
No comparison
In its literal meaning, 'einzigartig' (unique) is an absolute adjective. Something cannot be 'einzigartiger' (more unique) than something else, since logically it exists only once. A comparative is sometimes used colloquially for emphasis, but it is often considered stylistically awkward.
EXAMPLE
Die Architektur dieses Gebäudes ist in der ganzen Stadt einzigartig.
The architecture of this building is unique in the whole city.
Typical collocations
'Einzigartig' (unique) is often used to describe special moments or things. Common combinations are: 'eine einzigartige Gelegenheit' (a unique opportunity), 'ein einzigartiges Erlebnis' (a unique experience), 'ein einzigartiger Moment' (a unique moment), or 'eine einzigartige Persönlichkeit' (a unique personality).
EXAMPLE
Das war eine einzigartige Gelegenheit, die ich sofort nutzen musste.
That was a unique opportunity that I had to take advantage of immediately.
Compare with
einzigartig vs einzig
only / unique
Einzig and einzigartig can both describe a person or thing as special and incomparable. In this meaning, einzig often sounds elevated and can also mean „nur einmal vorhanden“ (existing only once); einzigartig makes the special quality clearer. For an unambiguous, strongly positive assessment, einzigartig is usually the more appropriate choice.
einzigartig
Seine ruhige Art ist unter den Rednern dieser Stadt einzigartig.
His calm manner is unique among the speakers in this city.
einzig
Seine ruhige Art ist unter den Rednern dieser Stadt einzig.
His calm manner is unique among the speakers in this city.
In real life
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