Warlike, soldierly, or related to war. The word describes an attitude, appearance, or action that is reminiscent of the military or combat.
example
Er trat mit einer martialischen Haltung auf, die alle einschüchterte.
He appeared with a martial bearing that intimidated everyone.
Usage tips
Word history
The word 'martialisch' (martial) derives from the name of the Roman god of war, 'Mars'. So anything that is martialisch is reminiscent of war, combat, and soldiers.
EXAMPLE
Die Rüstung des Kriegers hatte ein sehr martialisches Design.
The warrior's armor had a very martial design.
Typical collocations
'Martialisch' (martial) often describes the impression or atmosphere that something gives off. Typical combinations are 'martialisches Aussehen' (martial appearance), 'martialisches Auftreten' (martial bearing), 'martialische Musik' (martial music), or 'martialische Rhetorik' (martial rhetoric).
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker benutzte eine martialische Rhetorik, um Stärke zu zeigen.
The politician used martial rhetoric to show strength.
Usage note
In English, the related word 'martial' is best known from the term 'martial arts'. In German, however, 'martialisch' is not used for combat sports, but describes a warlike appearance or a warlike attitude. 'Martial arts' is 'Kampfkunst' or 'Kampfsport' in German.
EXAMPLE
Er hat eine sehr direkte, fast schon martialische Art zu diskutieren.
He has a very direct, almost martial way of discussing things.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
martial vs militärisch
military
'militärisch' and 'martial' can both describe something that recalls soldiers, war, or combat. 'militärisch' is more neutral and fits when something really belongs to the military or is organized very strictly. 'martial' describes the impression more strongly: something seems warlike, harsh, or threatening. The words can be confused because both refer to combat and the military. In practical terms: for real army-related topics, 'militärisch' is usually more precise; for a strong, warlike appearance or manner, 'martial' sounds more fitting.
martial
Mit den schweren Stiefeln und der dunklen Kleidung wirkte er sehr martial.
With the heavy boots and dark clothing, he looked very martial.
militärisch
Herr Wagner liest einen Bericht über eine militärische Übung.
Mr. Wagner is reading a report about a military exercise.