objective / functional
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objective
Relating only to facts and free from personal feelings or opinions; objective and neutral.
Bitte bleiben Sie bei der Diskussion sachlich und werden Sie nicht persönlich.
Please remain objective during the discussion and don't get personal.
The adjective 'sachlich' derives directly from 'die Sache' (the matter/thing). It means focusing on the facts ('die Sache' — the matter) without personal feelings or unnecessary details. This origin explains both meanings of the word.
Lassen Sie uns über die Sache selbst sprechen und dabei sachlich bleiben.
Let's talk about the matter itself and remain objective.
The context shows which meaning is intended. If 'sachlich' describes communication or behavior (discussion, criticism), it means 'objektiv' (objective). If it describes an object or a style (furniture, architecture), it means 'schlicht' (simple/plain) or 'funktional' (functional).
Seine E-Mail war kurz und sachlich formuliert.
His email was worded briefly and objectively.
In the meaning of 'objektiv' (objective), 'sachlich' is very frequently used with the verb 'bleiben' (to remain/stay). Other typical combinations are 'eine sachliche Diskussion' (an objective discussion), 'sachliche Kritik' (objective criticism), or 'sachlich argumentieren' (to argue objectively).
Obwohl das Thema emotional war, blieb die Journalistin immer sachlich.
Although the topic was emotional, the journalist always remained objective.
political
'politisch' and 'sachlich' can form a contrast when it comes to decisions or discussions. 'sachlich' then means that you are guided by facts and remain neutral. In this context, 'politisch' means more that a decision is made for tactical reasons, for example to reach a compromise or avoid upsetting anyone. So an objective solution asks: What is correct according to the facts? A political solution is more likely to ask: What is wise or acceptable in this situation?
Ali erklärt den Plan sachlich und nennt nur die wichtigsten Fakten.
Ali explains the plan objectively and mentions only the most important facts.
Die politisch kluge Antwort vermied einen Streit zwischen den beiden Gruppen.
The politically smart answer avoided an argument between the two groups.