Without requiring money or any other compensation in return; free or gratis. The term is often used in formal or legal contexts.
example
Die Rechtsberatung für Bedürftige wird unentgeltlich angeboten.
Legal advice for people in need is offered free of charge.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is easy to understand if you break it down: 'un-' (not) + 'Entgelt' (payment) + '-lich' (adjective ending). So it literally means 'without payment'.
EXAMPLE
Die Nutzung des Programms ist für Studierende unentgeltlich.
Use of the program is free of charge for students.
Register and style
'Unentgeltlich' (free of charge) is a formal word that is often used in official, legal, or business texts. It sounds more elevated and precise than colloquial alternatives.
EXAMPLE
Der Verein bietet unentgeltliche Hilfe für Senioren an.
The association offers free assistance for seniors.
Sentence structure and usage
The word can be used as an adjective before a noun or as an adverb that describes a verb. Both uses are very common.
EXAMPLE
Das ist ein unentgeltlicher Service für unsere Kunden. (Adjektiv)
This is a free service for our customers. (Adjective)
Compare with
near_synonym
unentgeltlich vs kostenlos
free
'kostenlos' and 'unentgeltlich' both mean that you do not have to pay anything. 'kostenlos' is the normal everyday word, for example for courses, apps, or admission. 'unentgeltlich' sounds more formal and is often used in contracts, legal texts, or official information. It can also emphasize that no other compensation is required. In conversation, 'kostenlos' is usually more natural; in formal texts, 'unentgeltlich' is often more precise.
unentgeltlich
Die Beratung wird morgen unentgeltlich angeboten.
The consultation will be offered free of charge tomorrow.
kostenlos
Der Fahrer bekommt im Krankenhaus einen kostenlosen Parkplatz für Besucher.
The driver gets a free parking space for visitors at the hospital.