hinfällig
invalid
No longer valid, effective, or relevant. Often used in connection with plans, agreements, or rules.
EXAMPLE
Da der Zeuge nicht erschienen ist, ist die Anklage hinfällig.
Since the witness did not appear, the charges are invalid.
hinfällig
invalid / frail
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Meanings
hinfällig
frail
Physically weak, frail, and in need of care, usually due to old age or illness.
EXAMPLE
Nach seiner schweren Operation war der alte Mann sehr hinfällig.
After his serious operation, the old man was very frail.
Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning of 'hinfällig' depends on the context. If it refers to abstract things like plans, rules, or appointments, it means 'ungültig' (invalid). If it refers to a person, it means 'körperlich schwach' (physically weak) or 'gebrechlich' (frail).
EXAMPLE
Unser alter Plan ist jetzt hinfällig.
Our old plan is now invalid.
Typical collocation
In the meaning 'ungültig' (invalid), 'hinfällig' is often combined with the verb 'werden' (to become). The phrase 'hinfällig werden' describes the process of something losing its validity.
EXAMPLE
Durch die neuen Gesetze werden einige alte Regelungen hinfällig.
Because of the new laws, some old regulations will become invalid.
Usage note
In the meaning 'gebrechlich' (frail), the word describes a state of severe physical weakness, usually due to age or illness. It is a rather formal and strong word.
EXAMPLE
Der hinfällige Patient braucht ständige Pflege.
The frail patient needs constant care.
Compare with
hinfällig vs ungültig
invalid
Ungültig describes an agreement that is not legally or formally valid. Hinfällig means that it is no longer valid, effective, or relevant, often because the circumstances have changed. Ungültig is appropriate for a formal defect, while hinfällig is more appropriate when the purpose no longer applies.
hinfällig
Die Vereinbarung ist durch die Absage des Projekts hinfällig geworden.
The agreement became moot when the project was canceled.
ungültig
Die Vereinbarung ist wegen der fehlenden Unterschrift ungültig.
The agreement is invalid because it is missing a signature.
In real life
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