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Gemeinwohl

common good; public welfare

noun ge-MYNE-vohl Rare

Usage Note

Gemeinwohl is a central concept in German constitutional law and political ethics; the Basic Law requires private property to also serve the Gemeinwohl (Art. 14 GG), making it more than just a moral appeal.

Examples

"Entscheidungen der Regierung sollen dem Gemeinwohl dienen."

Natural Translation

Government decisions should serve the common good.

Literal Translation

Decisions of the government should the common good serve.

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