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geradlinig
straight
Running in a straight line, without curves or deviations.
example
Der Weg führt geradlinig durch den Wald.
The path leads straight through the forest.
geradlinig
straight / straightforward
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Compound structure
The word is made up of 'gerade' (straight) and 'Linie' (line). The ending '-ig' turns it into an adjective. Its meaning is therefore literally 'like a straight line'.
EXAMPLE
Eine geradlinige Form ist leicht zu zeichnen.
A straight shape is easy to draw.
Context clue
If the word refers to a path, a movement, or a shape, the literal meaning is intended. If it describes a person, their character, or their actions, the figurative, positive meaning 'honest and direct' is intended.
EXAMPLE
Die Straße verläuft geradlinig bis zum Horizont.
The road runs straight to the horizon.
Typical collocations
In the literal meaning, 'geradlinig' (straight) is often combined with words for paths, movements, or shapes. Typical phrases are: 'ein geradliniger Weg' (a straight path), 'eine geradlinige Bewegung' (a straight movement), or 'geradlinig verlaufen' (to run straight).
EXAMPLE
Der Roboterarm führte eine präzise und geradlinige Bewegung aus.
The robotic arm made a precise and straight movement.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, the word often describes people or their qualities. Common combinations are: 'eine geradlinige Person' (a straightforward person), 'ein geradliniger Charakter' (a straightforward character), 'eine geradlinige Haltung' (a straightforward attitude), or 'geradlinig handeln' (to act in a straightforward way).
EXAMPLE
Er ist für seinen geradlinigen Charakter bekannt.
He is known for his straightforward character.
Compare with
geradlinig vs gerade
right now / straight
'gerade' and 'geradlinig' can both describe that something runs in a straight line. 'gerade' is the simpler and more common word for things like lines, roads, or edges. 'geradlinig' sounds more precise and emphasizes a course without curves or deviations. In addition, 'geradlinig' can also describe a person or behavior: direct, honest, and consistent. The words can be confused because they look similar. However, 'gerade' also has other meanings, for example 'now', which 'geradlinig' does not have.
geradlinig
In der Besprechung wirkt sie geradlinig und sagt klar, was sie denkt.
In the meeting, she comes across as straightforward and clearly says what she thinks.
gerade
Der Weg zum Bahnhof ist fast ganz gerade.
The path to the train station is almost completely straight.
In real life
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