validity
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validity
The state of being legally or officially recognized and effective. This often applies to documents, tickets, or contracts that are valid for a limited time or under certain conditions.
Bitte überprüfen Sie die Gültigkeit Ihres Reisepasses vor der Buchung.
Please check the validity of your passport before booking.
The word 'Gültigkeit' (validity) belongs to a word family. It is derived from the adjective 'gültig' (valid), which in turn comes from the verb 'gelten' (to be valid/effective). This connection helps you understand the meaning: gelten → gültig → die Gültigkeit.
Diese Fahrkarte gilt nur heute.
This ticket is valid only today.
'Gültigkeit' (validity) is a formal word that is frequently used in official, legal, or business contexts. It often sounds more official and precise.
Die Gültigkeit der AGB wurde gerichtlich bestätigt.
The validity of the terms and conditions was confirmed in court.
In connection with documents or tickets, 'Gültigkeit' (validity) is often combined with certain verbs. Typical phrases are 'die Gültigkeit prüfen' (to check the validity), 'die Gültigkeit verlängern' (to extend the validity), or 'seine Gültigkeit verlieren' (to lose its validity).
Ich muss die Gültigkeit meines Abonnements vor der nächsten Reise prüfen.
I need to check the validity of my subscription before the next trip.
The combinations with the verbs 'haben' (to have), 'erlangen' (to gain), and 'verlieren' (to lose) are fixed expressions. 'Gültigkeit haben' (to have validity) describes the state, 'Gültigkeit erlangen' (to gain validity) the beginning, and 'Gültigkeit verlieren' (to lose validity) the end of effectiveness.
Der Vertrag hat ab sofort Gültigkeit.
The contract has validity from now on.
strength / force
'in Kraft' and 'die Gültigkeit' both belong to rules, contracts, or documents that are officially effective. 'In Kraft treten' (to come into force) describes the moment from which something applies, for example a law or a new rule. 'Gültigkeit' describes the state or period in which something is valid, for example an ID, a ticket, or a contract. The words can be confused because both have to do with 'gelten' (to be valid/apply). If you are talking about the start of a rule, 'in Kraft treten' fits. If you are asking whether something is still valid or how long it is valid, 'Gültigkeit' fits.
Sofia hat die Gültigkeit ihres Tickets am Automaten geprüft.
Sofia checked the validity of her ticket at the machine.
Die neue Regel tritt am Montag in Kraft.
The new rule comes into force on Monday.