01
reichlich
plentiful
Present in a large amount; more than enough.
example
Auf dem Buffet gab es reichlich zu essen für alle Gäste.
There was plentiful food for all the guests at the buffet.
reichlich
plentiful / quite
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word structure
'Reichlich' (plentiful / quite) is derived from 'reich' (rich). The ending '-lich' turns the adjective 'reich' (in the sense of 'having a lot') into a word that means 'in a rich/large amount'.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben noch reichlich Zeit bis der Zug abfährt.
We still have plenty of time before the train departs.
Adjective or adverb?
The meaning of 'reichlich' depends on its function in the sentence. If it comes before a noun, it means 'a lot' or 'more than enough'. If it comes before an adjective or adverb, it means 'quite' or 'very'.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Wanderung hatten wir reichlich Hunger.
After the hike, we were plenty hungry.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'in großer Menge' (in a large amount), 'reichlich' is often used with uncountable nouns or plural nouns. Typical combinations are 'reichlich Zeit' (plenty of time), 'reichlich Platz' (plenty of space), 'reichlich Gründe' (plenty of reasons), or 'reichlich Essen' (plenty of food).
EXAMPLE
Für den Umzug brauchen wir reichlich Kartons.
We need plenty of boxes for the move.
Use as an adverb
As an adverb for emphasis, with the meaning 'ziemlich' (quite), 'reichlich' is often used to express slight surprise or criticism. It can sound somewhat more formal or emphatic.
EXAMPLE
Deine Erklärung ist reichlich kompliziert.
Your explanation is quite complicated.
Compare with
reichlich vs sehr
very
'sehr' and 'reichlich' can both intensify something, but they do not fit equally well in every situation. 'sehr' is the general word for a high degree and works with many adjectives, adverbs, and feelings. 'reichlich' often means that there is a lot of something, or more than enough. As an intensifier, it sounds more like 'quite' or 'more than expected', for example with time, work, or problems. 'sehr' is more neutral, while 'reichlich' often carries a hint of quantity or a slight sense of 'that is a lot'.
reichlich
Für die Besprechung haben wir noch reichlich Zeit.
We still have plenty of time for the meeting.
sehr
Wegen der hohen Rechnung ist sie sehr besorgt.
Because of the high bill, she is very worried.
In real life
Loading video examples...