particle
namely
B1
Nämlich means ‘namely’ or ‘that is’ and is a focus/conjunctive particle used to clarify or give reasons. It typically follows the element it refers to and does not inflect. Positioning is fixed: usually mid-sentence after the topic. Not a verb; no auxiliary. Use changes nuance but not grammar.
Examples
Er kann heute nicht kommen, er ist nämlich krank.
He can't come today — he's sick, you see.
Der Bericht wurde zurückgeschickt, weil bestimmte Daten fehlten, nämlich die Unterschrift des Leiters.
The report was sent back because certain data were missing, namely the signature of the manager.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture someone pointing and saying 'namely...' as an explanation — that's 'nämlich'
sounds like 'name-lick' — imagine giving a name or explanation
Notes
Used to introduce an explanation or reason; functions as an explanatory particle (placed after the clause it explains, e.g. er ist nämlich krank). Register: neutral to informal.