das  Grußwort

B2

Estimated CEFR level.

/ˈɡʁʊsˌvɔʁt/

📜 What Exactly is a Grußwort?

A Grußwort (neuter noun, article: das) is a short, usually formal speech or written contribution used to welcome guests or participants at an event (e.g., conference, celebration, opening). It serves to extend a welcome, acknowledge the significance of the occasion, and often express thanks.

It can also be a written piece, for example, at the beginning of a book or a commemorative publication (Festschrift), written by a prominent figure to endorse or introduce the work.

The article is always das because it's a compound noun where the last part is "das Wort" (the word). So, Gruß (greeting) + Wort (word) = das Grußwort. 💡

📊 Grammar: Declension of 'das Grußwort'

Das Grußwort is a neuter noun. Here are the declension tables:

Singular Declension

Plural Declension

📝 Example Sentences

1. Der Bürgermeister hielt ein kurzes Grußwort zur Eröffnung des Stadtfestes.
   (The mayor gave a short welcome address for the opening of the city festival.)
2. Im Vorwort des Buches findet sich ein Grußwort des Herausgebers.
   (In the foreword of the book, there is a message of greeting from the editor.)
3. Wir bitten den Ehrengast nun um sein Grußwort.
   (We now ask the guest of honor for his welcome address.)
4. Die gesammelten Grußworte wurden in einer Broschüre abgedruckt.
   (The collected messages of greeting were printed in a brochure.)

🗣️ When to Use 'Grußwort'

The term Grußwort is mainly used in formal or official contexts:

• Events: At conferences, conventions, anniversaries, openings, award ceremonies, or official receptions.
• Publications: As an introductory text in commemorative publications (Festschriften), program booklets, books, or reports, often by a person of rank or importance.
• Politics & Business: Politicians, CEOs, or association representatives often address Grußworte to specific groups or on particular occasions.

A Grußwort is typically shorter and less detailed than a main speech or lecture (Vortrag). It focuses on the welcome and acknowledgment of the occasion or the attendees.

Distinction: While a Begrüßung is the general act of welcoming, the Grußwort is a specific form of address or text for this purpose.

🧠 Mnemonics for 'das Grußwort'

Article Mnemonic: Remember the base word: It's das Wort (the word). A greeting (Gruß) is just a type of word, so it remains das Grußwort.

Meaning Mnemonic: Imagine entering a room full of important people (e.g., at a celebration 🎉). The first official utterance is a word (Wort) of greeting (Gruß) – hence, a Grußwort (welcome address).

🔄 Similar and Opposite Terms

⚠️ Potential for Confusion:

Gruß: A simple greeting (e.g., "Hallo", "Guten Tag") is much shorter and more informal than a Grußwort.

Ansprache: A more general term for a speech, can be longer and broader in topic than a Grußwort.

😂 A Little Joke about Grußwort

Fragt der Redenschreiber den Politiker: "Wie lang soll das Grußwort diesmal werden?" Antwortet der Politiker: "So etwa fünf Minuten – aber bitte mit drei Höhepunkten für den Applaus zwischendurch!" 😄

(The speechwriter asks the politician: "How long should the welcome address be this time?" The politician replies: "About five minutes – but please include three high points for applause in between!") 😄

✍️ A Poem about the Grußwort

Ein Fest beginnt, die Gäste lauschen,
Ein Wort zum Gruß soll nun berauschen.
Nicht lang, nicht kurz, genau im Maß,
Das Grußwort sagt: Willkommen, habt Spaß!

Es ehrt den Anlass, grüßt die Runde,
Bringt gute Wünsche zu der Stunde.
Ein Startsignal, freundlich und klar,
Das Grußwort ist nun endlich da.

(A celebration starts, the guests all listen,
A word of greeting now should glisten.
Not long, not short, just the right measure,
The Grußwort says: Welcome, find pleasure!)

(It honours the event, greets everyone near,
Brings good wishes for the hour here.
A starting sign, friendly and bright,
The Grußwort has arrived, alright.)

❓ Riddle Time

Ich steh am Anfang, selten am Schluss,
Bin mal gesprochen, mal ein Textfluss.
Ich heiße willkommen, mal kurz, mal mit Sinn,
Bei Feier und Tagung bin ich mittendrin.

Was bin ich?

(I stand at the beginning, rarely at the end,
Sometimes I'm spoken, sometimes words I send.
I bid welcome, brief or profound,
At parties and meetings, I can be found.

What am I?)

Solution: Das Grußwort

🧩 Additional Interesting Details

Word Composition:

The word "Grußwort" is a compound noun (Kompositum), made up of:

• Gruß: Derived from "grüßen" (to greet), meaning a sign of welcome or respect.
• Wort: Meaning "word", the smallest independent linguistic unit with meaning.

So, the combination literally means a "word (or speech) of greeting".

Cultural Aspect: In Germany, Grußworte have a long tradition at official events and are often considered an important part of the protocol. Their length and content can vary greatly depending on the occasion and the speaker.