Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| reichlich | /ˈʁaɪ̯çlɪç/ |
| wohlhabend |
reichlich is used to describe quantities of physical goods or substances that are more than sufficient, such as food, light, space or resources. You can also use voller when discussing something that is abundant and full of a particular item.
What does it mean word for word?
The word reichlich is derived from reich, meaning 'rich' and it functions as an adjective or an adverb meaning 'plentifully' or 'in abundance'.
Which one should you use?
While both words relate to abundance, they are used in different contexts. Use reichlich to refer to the quantity of physical goods or substances. Use wohlhabend to describe a person as wealthy or having abundant financial resources.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Switzerland, the word vill is used to express abundance.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʁaɪ̯çlɪç/
Did you know?
- The word wohlhabend literally translates to 'well-having' because it combines wohl for 'well' and habend for 'having'.
- In certain contexts, reichlich can be used as a polite understatement to suggest that something is actually excessive or too much.
- While reichlich is used for physical abundance, the word reich on its own can describe a 'rich' sound or a 'rich' color in artistic contexts.
Examples in context
- Der Baum trägt reichlich Früchte.The tree is abundant in fruit.This sentence uses reichlich to describe a tree bearing fruit.Tatoeba #2385425 by Tamy, translation #43788 by Luornu
- Die Ernte fiel dieses Jahr reichlich aus.There was an abundant harvest this year.This sentence uses reichlich to describe a harvest.Tatoeba #8633633 by Melang, translation #8946860 by sundown
- Sehr große Fenster sorgen für reichlich Tageslicht.Very large windows assure abundant natural daylight.This sentence uses reichlich to describe natural daylight.Tatoeba #3584751 by al_ex_an_der, translation #3584747 by al_ex_an_der
- Die Region ist reichlich mit natürlichen Ressourcen ausgestattet.The region is abundant in natural resources.
- Es gibt eine Fülle von Kulturveranstaltungen in dieser Stadt.There is an abundance of cultural events in this city.
- Die Ernte dieses Jahres brachte einen Überfluss an Früchten hervor.This year's harvest yielded an abundance of fruits.
- Wir haben haufenweise Süßigkeiten gekauft.We bought loads of candies.
Example conversation
Julia and Lukas are preparing a meal for guests.
- JuliaHaben wir genug Nudeln für alle?Do we have enough pasta for everyone?
- LukasJa, ich habe reichlich eingekauft.Yes, I bought plenty.
- JuliaSehr gut, dann reicht es sicher.Very good, then it will certainly be enough.
- LukasEs wird sogar reichlich übrig bleiben.There will even be plenty left over.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “abundant” translations and entries reichlich, wohlhabend, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.