Grundgesetz

Basic Law, German constitution

noun GRUNT-geh-zets Rare

Usage Note

Grundgesetz is the constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany, adopted in 1949. The name deliberately avoided Verfassung to signal its provisional character pending reunification. Since 1990 it is the permanent constitution. Amending it requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers.

Examples

"Das Grundgesetz garantiert die Meinungsfreiheit als Grundrecht."

Natural Translation

The Basic Law guarantees freedom of expression as a fundamental right.

Literal Translation

The Basic-Law guarantees the freedom-of-opinion as basic-right.

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