non-binding / noncommittal
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non-binding
Without a legal or contractual obligation; not binding. Often used for offers, price information, or recommendations.
Dies ist eine unverbindliche Preisempfehlung des Herstellers.
This is a non-binding price recommendation from the manufacturer.
The word 'unverbindlich' is the opposite of 'verbindlich' (binding, obligatory). The prefix 'un-' means 'not'. Something 'Unverbindliches' (non-binding) therefore creates no obligation.
Ich möchte nur eine unverbindliche Auskunft zu Ihren Preisen.
I would just like some non-binding information about your prices.
If 'unverbindlich' refers to things like offers, prices, or appointments, it means 'not binding'. If it refers to a person or their answer, it means that this person does not want to commit.
Das Hotel schickte uns ein unverbindliches Angebot für ein Wochenende.
The hotel sent us a non-binding offer for a weekend.
The word is very common in business. Typical combinations are 'unverbindliches Angebot' (non-binding offer), 'unverbindliche Anfrage' (non-binding inquiry), or the abbreviation 'UVP' for 'unverbindliche Preisempfehlung' (non-binding price recommendation).
Die unverbindliche Preisempfehlung für dieses Gerät liegt bei 99 Euro.
The non-binding price recommendation for this device is 99 euros.
When a person is described as 'unverbindlich' (noncommittal), it means that they remain vague and avoid clear commitments. You can 'unverbindlich bleiben' (remain noncommittal) or 'sich unverbindlich äußern' (express oneself noncommittally).
Auf meine Einladung zum Abendessen hat er nur unverbindlich reagiert.
He reacted only noncommittally to my dinner invitation.
voluntary
'freiwillig' and 'unverbindlich' can both express that you are not firmly obligated. The difference is in the emphasis. 'freiwillig' says that someone does something of their own free will and is not forced. 'unverbindlich' is used more for offers, appointments, prices, or recommendations when no fixed obligation results from them. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with freedom. In practice: for a person’s action, 'freiwillig' often fits; for an offer or commitment without obligation, 'unverbindlich' usually fits better.
Das Geschäft hat uns ein unverbindliches Angebot geschickt, das wir erst in Ruhe prüfen können.
The store sent us a non-binding offer that we can take our time reviewing.
Anton lernt am Wochenende freiwillig mit seiner Schwester für die Prüfung.
Anton voluntarily studies with his sister for the exam on the weekend.