01
die Akustik
acoustics
The sound-related properties of a room, which depend on how sound is reflected, absorbed, and transmitted.
example
Die Akustik in diesem Konzertsaal ist weltberühmt.
The acoustics in this concert hall are world-famous.
die Akustik
acoustics
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning is easy to recognize from context. If people are talking about a place, such as a concert hall, church, or room, and evaluating its sound, room acoustics are meant. If it is about science or physics, the field of study is meant.
EXAMPLE
Die Akustik in dieser Halle ist schrecklich, man versteht nichts.
The acoustics in this hall are terrible; you can't understand anything.
Use in the singular
The word 'Akustik' (acoustics) is almost always used in the singular in German, even when talking about the sound properties of several rooms. The plural 'die Akustiken' is very rare.
EXAMPLE
Die Akustik ist in beiden Konzertsälen hervorragend.
The acoustics are excellent in both concert halls.
Typical adjectives
When referring to the sound properties of a room, 'Akustik' (acoustics) is often described with evaluative adjectives such as 'gut' (good), 'schlecht' (bad), 'hervorragend' (excellent), 'brillant' (brilliant), or 'trocken' (dry).
EXAMPLE
Musiker lieben diesen Club für seine exzellente Akustik.
Musicians love this club for its excellent acoustics.
Compare with
Akustik vs Klang
sound
'der Klang' and 'die Akustik' both concern how something is heard. 'Der Klang' describes the quality of a particular tone, voice, or instrument. 'Die Akustik' describes more the properties of a room: whether you can hear well, whether there is an echo, or whether the sound comes across clearly. Learners can confuse the words because both are important in concerts, rooms, and music. 'Klang' fits what you hear directly. 'Akustik' fits when the room affects the sound.
Akustik
In der alten Kirche ist die Akustik besonders gut.
The acoustics in the old church are especially good.
Klang
Der Klang des Klaviers ist in diesem Lied sehr weich.
The sound of the piano is very soft in this song.
In real life
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