Explanation
Enig
“Enig” means “the only” or “unique” in this context. When you say that someone is an “enig kind” (only child), you mean that they have no siblings. The word is also used in other contexts to mean “special” or “unique.”
Examples:
“Ze is een enig kind en heeft geen broers of zussen.”
This means that she is the only son or daughter in her family.
“Het was een enig feest, we hebben ons geweldig geamuseerd.”
Here, “enig” means that the party was special and enjoyable.
“Hij heeft een enig idee om het probleem op te lossen.”
In this sentence, “enig” means that the idea is unique and creative.
Enigst
“Enigst” is a form that is actually incorrect in standard language in the context of family members. It is sometimes used informally or in spoken language, but the correct word in standard Dutch is “enig.” “Enigst” can be used in rare cases in other contexts, such as in an expression to indicate the only best thing, but this is very uncommon.
Example of rare use:
“Het is het enigst mogelijke scenario.”
Here, “enigst” is used to describe the only possible scenario, but this sentence sounds unusual and formal.
Proper Application in Context
It is important to use the correct form to communicate clearly. In the context of a child without siblings, “enig” is always the correct choice. The use of “enigst” can lead to confusion and is not considered correct in standard Dutch.
In summary, when you want to indicate that someone is the only child in a family, use “enig.” For other meanings of uniqueness or specialness, use “enig” as well. Avoid “enigst” in this context to be correct and clear.