This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 adjective #4,000 most common 10 min read

weltlich

Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips weltlich in 30 Seconds

Explanation weltlich in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'weltlich' is a bit advanced, but you can understand it simply as 'not in church' or 'not about God.' Think of the world around you: houses, cars, schools, and parks. These are all 'weltlich' (worldly). If you go to a museum and see a crown of a king, that is a 'weltliches' object. If you see a cross from a church, that is a 'religiöses' object. It is the opposite of religious. You don't need to use this word often at A1, but it is good to know that 'Welt' means 'world' and 'weltlich' is the adjective. It's like 'world-ly'. In simple sentences: 'Das ist kein religiöses Lied, es ist ein weltliches Lied.' (This is not a religious song, it is a secular song.) Just remember: Welt = World, Weltlich = about the world, not about religion.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'weltlich' to describe things in society. You might learn about German history or culture and hear about 'weltliche Herrscher' (secular rulers like kings) versus 'geistliche Herrscher' (church leaders like bishops). It is useful when you want to say that something is not related to the church. For example, if you are talking about a wedding, you can say 'eine weltliche Hochzeit' if it happens in a city hall (Standesamt) and not in a church. You can also use it to talk about interests. 'Er hat nur weltliche Interessen' means he cares about things like money, hobbies, and work, but not about religion or spirituality. It's a helpful word to categorize parts of life.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'weltlich' in more formal contexts, such as discussing the separation of church and state or describing types of music and art. You will encounter it in texts about the 'Aufklärung' (Enlightenment) or the history of the European legal system. You should understand phrases like 'weltliche Macht' (secular power) and 'weltliche Güter' (worldly goods/possessions). For instance, 'Nach dem Tod des Vaters wurden die weltlichen Güter unter den Kindern aufgeteilt.' (After the father's death, the worldly goods were divided among the children.) You also start to see the nuance: 'weltlich' isn't just 'non-religious,' it often refers to the structures of human society that exist independently of faith.

At the B2 level, 'weltlich' becomes an essential part of your vocabulary for discussing sociology, history, and philosophy. You should be able to distinguish it from synonyms like 'säkular' or 'profan'. At this level, you might discuss the 'Verweltlichung' (secularization) of modern society. You'll use it to describe complex social phenomena, such as 'weltliche Moralvorstellungen' (secular moral concepts) that are based on human rights rather than religious commandments. You should also be comfortable with its declension in complex sentences: 'Die zunehmende Bedeutung weltlicher Institutionen prägte das 19. Jahrhundert.' (The increasing importance of secular institutions shaped the 19th century.) It is a key word for expressing the distinction between the sacred and the profane in academic discussions.

At the C1 level, you use 'weltlich' with precision and stylistic awareness. You understand its historical weight, especially regarding the 'Reichsdeputationshauptschluss' and the secularization of church lands in Germany. You can use it to discuss the dichotomy between 'Sacerdotium' (spiritual authority) and 'Imperium' (secular authority) in medieval studies. You also recognize its use in literary analysis, where 'weltliche Lyrik' (secular poetry) is contrasted with 'geistliche Dichtung'. You might use it metaphorically to describe a person's outlook: 'Seine weltliche Klugheit half ihm, die politischen Intrigen zu überstehen.' (His worldly wisdom helped him survive the political intrigues.) You are aware of the subtle differences between 'weltlich', 'laizistisch', and 'säkular' and can choose the right one for the specific legal or social context you are describing.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'weltlich' and its various connotations. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about 'Weltlichkeit' as a concept (e.g., in the works of Hannah Arendt or Martin Heidegger). You understand how the word functions in the context of 'Weltimmanenz' versus 'Transzendenz'. You can use it in highly formal legal or theological writing, such as discussing the 'Zwei-Reiche-Lehre' (Two Kingdoms doctrine) of Martin Luther, which distinguishes between the 'geistliches Regiment' and 'weltliches Regiment'. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker, employing the word to add historical depth and conceptual clarity to your speech and writing. You also recognize archaic or specialized uses in Middle High German texts during philological studies.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

weltlich in 30 Seconds

Weltlich is the German adjective for 'secular' or 'worldly', used to describe things that are not religious, spiritual, or sacred in nature.
It is commonly contrasted with 'geistlich' (spiritual/clerical) and is essential for discussing history, law, politics, and the arts in Germany.
The word can describe anything from 'weltliche Macht' (secular power) to 'weltliche Musik' (non-religious music) and 'weltliche Güter' (material possessions).
Learners must be careful not to confuse it with 'weltweit' (worldwide) or 'weltoffen' (open-minded), as 'weltlich' specifically addresses the secular-religious divide.

The German adjective weltlich is a foundational term used to distinguish things of the physical, human, and social world from those belonging to the spiritual, religious, or ecclesiastical spheres. At its core, it translates to 'secular' or 'worldly.' Understanding this word requires looking back at European history, where society was strictly divided between the Klerus (clergy) and the Laien (laity). Anything that didn't happen inside the church or wasn't governed by divine law was considered weltlich. In modern German, you will encounter this word most frequently in discussions about politics, law, art history, and philosophy, particularly when the separation of church and state is the topic of conversation.

Political Context: It refers to secular authorities, laws, and governments that operate independently of religious institutions. This is the cornerstone of modern democracy.
Artistic Context: It distinguishes non-religious art, such as portraits or landscapes, from religious icons or altarpieces. Secular music (weltliche Musik) is any music not intended for worship.
Philosophical Context: It describes a focus on the 'here and now' rather than the afterlife. A 'weltliche Lebenseinstellung' is a lifestyle centered on material and social reality.

Die Trennung von weltlicher und geistlicher Macht war ein langer Prozess in der europäischen Geschichte.

When using weltlich, you are often making a categorical distinction. It is not just about being 'non-religious' in a personal sense (like being an atheist), but rather about the domain to which something belongs. For instance, a judge exercises weltliche Gewalt (secular power), whereas a priest performs spiritual duties. In everyday language, it can also take on a slightly negative connotation in certain religious circles, implying a preoccupation with material wealth or superficial pleasures—what we might call 'worldly' in a judgmental sense. However, in most formal and academic contexts, it is a neutral, descriptive term used to categorize laws, music, leadership, and education systems.

In der Renaissance begannen Künstler, vermehrt weltliche Motive wie Landschaften zu malen.

Furthermore, the term is essential for understanding the concept of Säkularisierung (secularization). When a society becomes more 'weltlich', it moves away from religious control. This doesn't mean religion disappears, but rather that the 'weltlich' aspects of life—law, science, and governance—are no longer dictated by the church. This distinction is vital in German legal studies, where weltliches Recht (secular law) is contrasted with Kirchenrecht (canon law). Even in literature, a 'weltlicher Stoff' refers to a story based on human events rather than biblical narratives.

Er interessierte sich wenig für Religion, sondern konzentrierte sich auf weltliche Angelegenheiten wie Handel und Politik.

Antonym: Geistlich: Relating to the church, clergy, or soul. A priest is a 'Geistlicher'.
Synonym: Säkular: Often used in political science to describe the state's neutrality towards religion.

Using weltlich correctly involves understanding its declension as an adjective and its semantic placement against religious terms. Because it is an adjective, it changes its ending based on the gender, number, and case of the noun it modifies. For example, 'ein weltlicher Herrscher' (a secular ruler) uses the masculine nominative ending '-er'. In contrast, 'die weltlichen Güter' (worldly goods) uses the plural ending '-en'.

Wir müssen zwischen religiösen Überzeugungen und weltlichen Gesetzen unterscheiden.

One of the most common ways to use 'weltlich' is in the phrase weltliche Macht. Historically, this referred to kings and emperors, as opposed to the Pope. In a sentence: 'Der Kaiser beanspruchte die weltliche Macht für sich.' (The emperor claimed secular power for himself). You can also use it to describe education. A 'weltliche Erziehung' is an upbringing focused on science, ethics, and social skills without religious instruction. In modern sociology, you might hear about 'weltliche Rituale'—ceremonies like weddings or funerals that don't involve a priest or religious liturgy.

Describing Objects: 'Weltliche Güter' (worldly goods) refers to money, property, and possessions. 'Er verzichtete auf alle weltlichen Güter, um Mönch zu werden.'
Describing Music/Art: 'Weltliche Kantaten' are musical works by composers like Bach that aren't for church services. 'Johann Sebastian Bach schrieb auch viele weltliche Werke.'

Trotz seines Reichtums blieb er ein Mensch, dem weltliche Vergnügungen wenig bedeuteten.

Another nuanced use is in the context of 'worldly wisdom' or weltliche Klugheit. This refers to being savvy in business or social situations—knowing how the world works. It is different from 'spiritual wisdom.' If you say someone is 'sehr weltlich orientiert,' you mean they are very focused on material success and social status. Be careful not to confuse 'weltlich' with 'weltweit' (worldwide). 'Weltweit' is about geography; 'weltlich' is about the nature of the thing (secular vs. sacred).

Die Universität ist eine rein weltliche Institution.

Common Pattern: [Noun] + und + [Noun]: 'Geistliche und weltliche Anführer kamen zusammen.' (Spiritual and secular leaders came together.)

You are most likely to encounter weltlich in formal or academic settings. If you visit a museum in Germany, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum or a castle treasury (Schatzkammer), you will see displays divided into 'Geistliche Schatzkammer' (spiritual items like reliquaries) and 'Weltliche Schatzkammer' (secular items like crowns, scepters, and jewelry). This distinction is a standard part of European historical cataloging. In news reports, especially those concerning the Middle East or debates about the crucifix in German classrooms, the word 'weltlich' (or its synonym 'säkular') appears frequently to describe the 'secular' nature of the state.

In der weltlichen Schatzkammer in Wien kann man die Kaiserkrone bewundern.

In literature and philosophy classes, 'weltlich' is used to describe the shift in human thought during the Enlightenment. Professors might talk about the 'Verweltlichung' (secularization) of society. You will also hear it in legal contexts. Germany has a unique relationship with the church where the state collects 'Kirchensteuer' (church tax), but the legal system itself is strictly 'weltlich'. If a lawyer says, 'Das ist eine weltliche Angelegenheit,' they mean it falls under civil or criminal law, not religious internal rules. Furthermore, in the music world, listeners of classical music often distinguish between Bach's 'weltliche Kantaten' (composed for birthdays or civic events) and his sacred works.

Media Usage: News articles about 'laizistische' (laicist) states like France often use 'weltlich' to explain the concept to German readers.
Education: History textbooks use it to explain the 'Investiturstreit'—the conflict between the Pope and the Emperor over who had the right to appoint bishops.

Viele moderne Paare entscheiden sich für eine weltliche Trauung ohne religiöse Zeremonie.

Another interesting place you might hear it is in discussions about lifestyle. If someone is described as having 'weltliche Sorgen' (worldly worries), it refers to everyday problems like paying rent, health, or career, as opposed to existential or spiritual crises. This usage is slightly more literary. In summaries of historical novels, you'll often see the protagonist caught between 'weltlichen Versuchungen' (worldly temptations) and their religious vows. It's a word that carries the weight of history but remains perfectly applicable to the structures of modern life.

The most frequent mistake learners make with weltlich is confusing it with the word weltweit. While they both contain the root 'Welt' (world), they mean completely different things. Weltweit is an adjective or adverb meaning 'worldwide' or 'global' (e.g., 'ein weltweites Problem'). Weltlich, on the other hand, describes the nature of something as non-religious. You wouldn't say 'ein weltliches Unternehmen' if you mean a global corporation; you would say 'ein weltweit agierendes Unternehmen.' If you call it 'weltlich', you're implying the company has no religious affiliation, which is usually assumed anyway and thus sounds strange.

Falsch: Die Firma hat weltliche Filialen. (Wrong: The company has secular branches.)
Richtig: Die Firma hat weltweite Filialen. (Right: The company has worldwide branches.)

Another mistake is confusing weltlich with weltoffen. Weltoffen means 'open-minded,' 'cosmopolitan,' or 'tolerant.' Someone who travels a lot and loves different cultures is weltoffen. Someone who is weltlich is simply someone who focuses on non-religious life. A priest can be weltoffen (open to other cultures) but he is definitely not weltlich (because his profession is spiritual). Using 'weltlich' to mean 'cosmopolitan' is a common semantic error for English speakers because 'worldly' can sometimes mean 'sophisticated' in English.

Weltlich vs. Weltoffen: 'Weltlich' = Secular/Non-religious. 'Weltoffen' = Open-minded/Cosmopolitan.
Weltlich vs. Irdisch: 'Irdisch' means 'earthly' (related to the planet Earth). While similar, 'irdisch' is often used in a more poetic or physical sense (earthly remains), while 'weltlich' is used in a more institutional or social sense (secular law).

Achtung: Sagen Sie nicht 'ich bin weltlich', wenn Sie meinen 'ich bin ein Weltbürger' (citizen of the world).

Lastly, be careful with the nuance of 'secular.' In English, 'secular' is almost always neutral. In German, 'weltlich' can sometimes sound a bit old-fashioned or specifically historical. In modern political debates, Germans often prefer the loanword säkular or laizistisch to describe the state. Using 'weltlich' in a high-level political essay might sound slightly less precise than 'säkular', though it is not technically incorrect. Always consider if you are talking about the absence of religion (weltlich/säkular) or the presence of global reach (weltweit).

The German language offers several synonyms for weltlich, each with a specific nuance. The most common alternative is säkular. While 'weltlich' is a Germanic word, 'säkular' comes from Latin. In modern academic and political discourse, 'säkular' is preferred when discussing the state, education, or society. For example, 'ein säkularer Staat' sounds more modern and technical than 'ein weltlicher Staat,' though both are used. 'Weltlich' is more common when discussing history, art, or personal lifestyle.

Säkular: Modern, academic, and political. Used for 'secularism' (Säkularismus).
Profan: Literally 'profane.' It refers to things that are everyday, ordinary, and not sacred. It can sometimes have a negative nuance (disrespectful to the sacred), but in art history, it simply means non-religious.
Irdisch: 'Earthly.' Used in contrast to 'himmlisch' (heavenly). It's more poetic and physical. 'Irdische Freuden' are physical pleasures.
Laizistisch: Specifically refers to the strict separation of church and state, as practiced in France (Laizismus).

Während weltlich eher den Bereich beschreibt, betont profan die Alltäglichkeit.

If you are describing a person who is very interested in material things, you might use materiell eingestellt or materialistisch. 'Weltlich' in this sense is a bit more sophisticated. For example, if a monk leaves the monastery, he returns to the 'weltliches Leben' (secular life). Here, 'säkular' would sound too clinical, and 'profan' would sound too insulting. 'Weltlich' is the perfect middle ground. In literature, you might also find zeitlich (temporal) used as a synonym in very specific theological contexts, referring to things that exist in time as opposed to eternity.

Die irdischen Überreste wurden beigesetzt, während sein weltlicher Besitz verteilt wurde.

When choosing between these words, ask yourself: Am I talking about politics/law (säkular/laizistisch), art/history (weltlich/profan), or the physical world vs. heaven (irdisch)? This will help you select the most natural-sounding German term for your context.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die weltliche Gerichtsbarkeit ist unabhängig von religiösen Institutionen."

Neutral

"Wir haben uns für eine weltliche Hochzeit entschieden."

Informal

"Er denkt nur an weltlichen Kram wie Geld."

Child friendly

"Es gibt Lieder für die Kirche und weltliche Lieder für das Radio."

Slang

"Der Typ ist voll auf dem weltlichen Trip."

Fun Fact

The word 'Welt' itself comes from a compound meaning 'age of man' (wer = man, ald = age). So 'weltlich' literally means 'man-age-like'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈvɛltlɪç/

US /ˈvɛltlɪk/

The stress is on the first syllable: WELT-lich.

Rhymes With

anwaltlich hauptamtlich pünktlich eigentlich hoffentlich wesentlich öffentlich namentlich

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'v' as 'f'. In German, 'w' is always 'v'.
Pronouncing 'ch' as 'k'. It should be a soft 'h' sound.
Confusing it with 'weltweit' (worldwide).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and history books, but requires understanding the secular/religious context.

Writing 5/5

Declension can be tricky for learners at lower levels.

Speaking 4/5

Pronouncing the 'ch' sound correctly is the main challenge.

Listening 3/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'Welt'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

die Welt die Kirche religiös die Macht das Lied

Learn Next

säkular geistlich profan irdisch die Säkularisierung

Advanced

der Laizismus die Transzendenz das Diesseits die Liturgie die Jurisdiktion

Grammar to Know

Adjective Declension

ein weltlichER Herrscher (masculine nominative)

Substantivized Adjectives

Das Weltliche (The secular/worldly things)

Contrastive Adjectives

Geistliche und weltliche Macht (Both modify the noun)

Adverbs from Adjectives

Er lebt sehr weltlich (He lives very worldly/secularly)

Compound Nouns

Die Weltlichmachung (The act of making something secular)

Examples by Level

Das ist ein weltliches Buch.

This is a secular book.

Adjective 'weltlich' with neuter ending '-es'.

Sie singen weltliche Lieder.

They sing secular songs.

Plural adjective ending '-e'.

Er mag weltliche Dinge.

He likes worldly things.

Plural accusative.

Die Schule ist weltlich.

The school is secular.

Predicative use (no ending).

Ich habe weltliche Hobbys.

I have secular hobbies.

Plural adjective.

Ist das ein weltliches Fest?

Is that a secular festival?

Question with neuter adjective.

Wir lernen über weltliche Themen.

We learn about secular topics.

Dative plural after 'über'.

Mein Freund ist sehr weltlich.

My friend is very worldly.

Predicative adjective.

In der Stadt gibt es viele weltliche Gebäude.

In the city, there are many secular buildings.

Plural nominative.

Der König hatte die weltliche Macht.

The king had the secular power.

Feminine accusative ending '-e'.

Wir feiern eine weltliche Hochzeit.

We are having a secular wedding.

Feminine accusative.

Er interessiert sich für weltliche Geschichte.

He is interested in secular history.

Feminine dative after 'für' (accusative here actually).

Die Musik im Radio ist meistens weltlich.

The music on the radio is mostly secular.

Predicative use.

Es gibt geistliche und weltliche Berufe.

There are spiritual and secular professions.

Plural contrast.

Dieses Gesetz ist eine weltliche Regel.

This law is a secular rule.

Feminine nominative.

Sie kümmert sich um weltliche Probleme.

She takes care of worldly problems.

Plural accusative.

Johann Sebastian Bach komponierte auch weltliche Kantaten.

Johann Sebastian Bach also composed secular cantatas.

Plural accusative.

Der Staat sollte in weltlichen Fragen neutral bleiben.

The state should remain neutral in secular questions.

Dative plural after 'in'.

Er gab all seinen weltlichen Besitz auf.

He gave up all his worldly possessions.

Masculine accusative ending '-en' after 'all'.

Diese Zeremonie hat einen rein weltlichen Charakter.

This ceremony has a purely secular character.

Masculine accusative.

Die weltliche Literatur der Renaissance war sehr vielfältig.

The secular literature of the Renaissance was very diverse.

Feminine nominative.

Er strebt nach weltlichem Ruhm.

He strives for worldly fame.

Dative masculine after 'nach'.

Wir müssen die geistliche von der weltlichen Sphäre trennen.

We must separate the spiritual from the secular sphere.

Dative feminine after 'von'.

Weltliche Bildung ist für den Fortschritt wichtig.

Secular education is important for progress.

Feminine nominative.

Die Trennung von Kirche und weltlicher Gewalt ist ein hohes Gut.

The separation of church and secular power is a great asset.

Dative feminine.

In seiner Philosophie spielen weltliche Werte eine zentrale Rolle.

In his philosophy, secular values play a central role.

Plural nominative.

Die Säkularisierung führte zu einer Verweltlichung der Gesellschaft.

Secularization led to a 'worldification' (secularization) of society.

Noun 'Verweltlichung' derived from 'weltlich'.

Er war ein Mann von großer weltlicher Erfahrung.

He was a man of great worldly experience.

Genitive/Dative feminine construction.

Das Gericht befasst sich nur mit weltlichen Rechtsstreitigkeiten.

The court only deals with secular legal disputes.

Dative plural.

Weltliche Vergnügungen können vom spirituellen Pfad ablenken.

Worldly pleasures can distract from the spiritual path.

Plural nominative.

Die weltliche Trauerfeier fand im engsten Familienkreis statt.

The secular funeral service took place in the closest family circle.

Feminine nominative.

Sie untersuchten die weltlichen Motive hinter dem Kreuzzug.

They examined the secular motives behind the crusade.

Plural accusative.

Die weltliche Architektur des Barock war oft ebenso prächtig wie die sakrale.

The secular architecture of the Baroque was often just as magnificent as the sacral.

Feminine nominative.

Er warnte vor einer rein weltlichen Sicht auf die menschliche Existenz.

He warned against a purely secular view of human existence.

Dative feminine after 'vor'.

Die Fürstbischöfe vereinten geistliche und weltliche Herrschaft in ihrer Person.

The prince-bishops united spiritual and secular rule in their person.

Feminine accusative.

Sein Roman thematisiert den Konflikt zwischen Askese und weltlicher Lust.

His novel themes the conflict between asceticism and worldly lust.

Dative feminine.

Die weltliche Gerichtsbarkeit wurde im Laufe der Jahrhunderte gestärkt.

Secular jurisdiction was strengthened over the centuries.

Feminine nominative.

In einer pluralistischen Gesellschaft müssen weltliche Argumente Vorrang haben.

In a pluralistic society, secular arguments must take precedence.

Plural nominative.

Die weltliche Ordnung schien durch die Revolution bedroht.

The secular order seemed threatened by the revolution.

Feminine nominative.

Er analysierte die weltlichen Aspekte des Kirchenrechts.

He analyzed the secular aspects of canon law.

Plural accusative.

Die ontologische Differenz zwischen dem Heiligen und dem Weltlichen ist ein zentrales Thema.

The ontological difference between the sacred and the secular is a central theme.

Substantivized adjective in dative neuter.

In der Frühen Neuzeit emanzipierte sich die weltliche Wissenschaft von der Theologie.

In the early modern period, secular science emancipated itself from theology.

Feminine nominative.

Die weltliche Dimension des Papsttums war oft Gegenstand heftiger Kritik.

The secular dimension of the papacy was often the subject of fierce criticism.

Feminine nominative.

Er plädierte für eine weltliche Ethik, die ohne transzendente Begründung auskommt.

He pleaded for a secular ethics that manages without transcendent justification.

Feminine accusative.

Die weltliche Prachtentfaltung der Renaissancefürsten diente der Legitimation ihrer Macht.

The secular display of splendor by Renaissance princes served to legitimize their power.

Feminine nominative.

Durch die Säkularisation wurden zahlreiche weltliche Territorien neu geordnet.

Through secularization, numerous secular territories were reorganized.

Plural nominative.

Sein Denken ist tief in der weltlichen Realität verwurzelt.

His thinking is deeply rooted in secular reality.

Dative feminine.

Die Abgrenzung weltlicher Belange von religiösen Dogmen ist für den Liberalismus konstitutiv.

The demarcation of secular concerns from religious dogmas is constitutive for liberalism.

Genitive plural.

Common Collocations

weltliche Macht

weltliche Güter

weltliche Musik

weltliche Herrscher

weltliche Bildung

weltliches Recht

weltliche Freuden

weltliche Angelegenheiten

weltliche Trauerfeier

weltliche Motive

Common Phrases

weltlich gesinnt sein

— To have a worldly or secular mindset.

Er ist eher weltlich gesinnt.

weltliche Belange

— Worldly concerns or interests.

Er kümmert sich nur um weltliche Belange.

weltliche Instanz

— A secular authority or institution.

Das Gericht ist eine weltliche Instanz.

weltliche Ordnung

— The secular or civil order of society.

Die weltliche Ordnung muss gewahrt bleiben.

weltliche Klugheit

— Worldly wisdom or street smarts.

Sie besitzt viel weltliche Klugheit.

weltliche Zeremonie

— A ceremony without religious elements.

Sie wünschten sich eine weltliche Zeremonie.

weltliche Literatur

— Non-religious literature.

Wir lesen weltliche Literatur des Mittelalters.

weltliche Führung

— Secular leadership.

Die weltliche Führung des Landes ist stabil.

weltliche Sphäre

— The secular sphere of life.

Religion hat in der weltlichen Sphäre nichts zu suchen.

weltliche Versuchung

— Worldly temptation (material or physical).

Er widerstand jeder weltlichen Versuchung.

Often Confused With

weltlich vs weltweit

Means 'worldwide'. Geography vs. Nature.

weltlich vs weltoffen

Means 'open-minded'. Attitude vs. Category.

weltlich vs weltfremd

Means 'out of touch with reality'. Practicality vs. Category.

Idioms & Expressions

"Alles Weltliche ist vergänglich."

— Everything worldly is transitory/temporary.

Denk daran: Alles Weltliche ist vergänglich.

literary/philosophical

"Sich von allem Weltlichen abkehren."

— To turn away from everything worldly (often to become a monk/nun).

Sie kehrte sich von allem Weltlichen ab.

formal

"In weltlichen Dingen bewandert sein."

— To be well-versed in worldly matters (experienced).

Er ist in weltlichen Dingen sehr bewandert.

formal

"Weltliche Macht bricht geistliche Macht."

— Secular power breaks spiritual power (historical proverb).

Früher sagte man: Weltliche Macht bricht geistliche Macht.

historical

"Dem Weltlichen verfallen sein."

— To be addicted to or obsessed with worldly things.

Er ist dem Weltlichen völlig verfallen.

critical

"Kein weltliches Auge hat es gesehen."

— No worldly eye has seen it (it is divine/secret).

Das ist ein Geheimnis, das kein weltliches Auge gesehen hat.

poetic

"Weltlicher Tand."

— Worldly trinkets/useless luxury.

Das ist alles nur weltlicher Tand.

old-fashioned

"Sich mit weltlichem Ruhm begnügen."

— To be satisfied with worldly fame (rather than eternal salvation).

Er begnügte sich mit weltlichem Ruhm.

literary

"Das weltliche Regiment."

— The secular government (Lutheran term).

Gott regiert durch das weltliche Regiment.

theological

"Weltliche Sorgen haben."

— To have everyday, material worries.

Lass uns nicht über weltliche Sorgen reden.

neutral

Easily Confused

weltlich vs säkular

Both mean secular.

'Säkular' is more modern/political; 'weltlich' is more traditional/historical.

Ein säkularer Staat vs. Weltliche Musik.

weltlich vs profan

Both mean non-religious.

'Profan' can mean 'ordinary' or 'disrespectful'; 'weltlich' is a neutral category.

Profane Sprache vs. Weltliche Macht.

weltlich vs irdisch

Both mean non-heavenly.

'Irdisch' is more about the physical Earth; 'weltlich' is about human society.

Irdisches Leben vs. Weltliche Gesetze.

weltlich vs zeitlich

In theology, both refer to the temporal world.

'Zeitlich' means 'temporal/related to time'; 'weltlich' means 'related to the world'.

Zeitliche Begrenzung vs. Weltliche Angelegenheiten.

weltlich vs materiell

Both can refer to physical things.

'Materiell' is about physical matter/money; 'weltlich' is a broader cultural category.

Materieller Wohlstand vs. Weltliche Bildung.

Sentence Patterns

Das ist ein(e) weltliche(s) [Noun].

Das ist ein weltliches Lied.

[Noun] ist wichtiger als weltliche Dinge.

Glaube ist wichtiger als weltliche Dinge.

Es gibt eine Trennung zwischen [Noun] und weltlicher Macht.

Es gibt eine Trennung zwischen Religion und weltlicher Macht.

Trotz [Genitive], blieb er weltlich orientiert.

Trotz seiner Erziehung blieb er weltlich orientiert.

Die [Noun] befasst sich mit weltlichen [Noun].

Die Regierung befasst sich mit weltlichen Angelegenheiten.

Inwiefern lässt sich [Noun] als weltliches Phänomen beschreiben?

Inwiefern lässt sich Moral als weltliches Phänomen beschreiben?

Die Verflechtung von geistlicher und weltlicher [Noun]...

Die Verflechtung von geistlicher und weltlicher Herrschaft war komplex.

Das Weltliche fungiert hierbei als Antithese zum Sakralen.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in specific domains (history, law, arts, news).

Common Mistakes

Using 'weltlich' for 'global'. → weltweit
Weltlich means secular; weltweit means worldwide.
Using 'weltlich' to mean 'sophisticated'. → weltgewandt / weltoffen
In English, 'worldly' can mean sophisticated, but in German, 'weltlich' only means secular.
Wrong adjective ending in dative. → mit weltlicher Macht
Feminine dative requires '-er' ending after 'mit'.
Confusing 'weltlich' with 'menschlich'. → weltlich
While 'menschlich' means human, 'weltlich' specifically contrasts with the divine or religious.
Using 'säkular' in a historical art context. → weltlich
While technically correct, 'weltlich' is much more common for art history (e.g., weltliche Musik).

Tips

Adjective Endings

Remember to decline 'weltlich' correctly. Example: 'mit weltlicher Macht' (dative feminine).

Pairing

Always learn 'weltlich' together with its opposite 'geistlich'. They are a fixed pair in history and art.

Historical Context

When reading about the Middle Ages, 'weltlich' always refers to the Emperor/Kings, while 'geistlich' refers to the Church.

Legal Terms

In law, 'weltliches Recht' is the law of the state, as opposed to 'Kirchenrecht'.

German Society

Germany is a 'weltlicher Staat', but the word 'säkular' is often used in political debates.

Classical Music

If you see 'weltliche Kantate' on a CD, it means the music was not written for a church service.

Not Worldwide

Never use 'weltlich' for 'worldwide'. That is 'weltweit'.

Writing Style

Use 'weltlich' to add a touch of historical or formal depth to your German writing.

The 'ch' sound

Make sure the 'ch' is soft. It should sound like a gentle breeze, not like you're clearing your throat.

The 'lich' suffix

Think of '-lich' as 'like'. 'Welt-lich' is 'world-like' (secular).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Welt' (World) + 'lich' (Like). It is 'World-like'. If it's in the world and not in the clouds (heaven), it's weltlich.

Visual Association

Imagine a king's crown (weltlich) next to a bishop's hat (geistlich). The crown represents the 'weltliche Macht'.

Word Web

Welt Weltlich Weltweit Weltoffen Weltraum Weltmarkt Weltstadt Weltbild

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room that are 'weltlich' (everything probably is!) and then think of one thing that is 'geistlich' (like a prayer book or a cross).

Word Origin

From Middle High German 'weltlich' and Old High German 'weltlīh'. It is formed from 'Welt' (world) and the suffix '-lich' (equivalent to English '-ly' or '-like').

Original meaning: Originally it meant 'belonging to the age' or 'belonging to the world of men', as opposed to the eternal world of God.

Germanic, related to Dutch 'wereldlijk' and English 'worldly'.

Cultural Context

The word is neutral, but in very religious contexts, it can imply a lack of spirituality. Use it descriptively to avoid offense.

In English, 'worldly' often means 'sophisticated' or 'experienced'. In German, 'weltlich' almost always means 'secular' or 'non-religious'. Don't use it to call someone 'sophisticated'.

Johann Sebastian Bach's 'Weltliche Kantaten' Martin Luther's 'Zwei-Reiche-Lehre' The 'Weltliche Schatzkammer' (Secular Treasury) in Vienna

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

History

der Investiturstreit
weltliche Fürsten
Trennung der Mächte
Kirchenbesitz

Music

weltliche Kantate
Volksmusik
Unterhaltungsmusik
nicht-sakral

Law

weltliches Recht
Zivilrecht
Staat und Kirche
neutraler Staat

Sociology

säkulare Gesellschaft
weltliche Rituale
Wertepluralismus
Verweltlichung

Philosophy

humanistische Ethik
diesseitiges Leben
Materialismus
Aufklärung

Conversation Starters

"Bevorzugst du eine weltliche oder eine kirchliche Trauung?"

"Glaubst du, dass weltliche Werte ausreichen, um eine Gesellschaft zusammenzuhalten?"

"Welche weltlichen Güter sind dir am wichtigsten?"

"Sollte der Staat in weltlichen Angelegenheiten völlig getrennt von der Kirche sein?"

"Hörst du lieber geistliche oder weltliche klassische Musik?"

Journal Prompts

Reflektiere über den Unterschied zwischen deinen spirituellen Überzeugungen und deinen weltlichen Zielen.

Beschreibe eine weltliche Zeremonie, die du besucht hast. Wie hat sie sich von einer religiösen unterschieden?

Was bedeutet 'weltliche Klugheit' für dich im Berufsleben?

Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile einer rein weltlichen Erziehung in der heutigen Zeit.

Stell dir vor, du müsstest auf alle weltlichen Güter verzichten. Was würdest du am meisten vermissen?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is generally neutral. However, in a very religious context, it might be used to criticize someone for being too focused on money or fame rather than God.

No. Use 'weltweit' for geographic reach. 'Weltlich' only means secular or non-religious.

The most common opposite is 'geistlich' (spiritual/clerical) or 'religiös' (religious).

Yes, especially in the news when discussing the separation of church and state, or in art and music.

You can say 'weltlicher Staat', but 'säkularer Staat' is more common in political science.

They are 'worldly goods'—physical possessions like money, houses, and cars.

Yes, if they are not religious or if they are very focused on material life, you can say they are 'weltlich orientiert'.

They are synonyms, but 'säkular' sounds more academic, while 'weltlich' is more versatile and historical.

It is a wedding ceremony that does not take place in a church and has no religious elements.

It means 'secularization'—the process of something becoming more secular and less religious.