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
die Akustik
acoustics
The branch of physics that scientifically studies sound, its creation, propagation, and perception.
EXAMPLE
Im Physikstudium ist die Akustik ein wichtiges Teilgebiet der Wellenlehre.
In physics studies, acoustics is an important subfield of wave theory.
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
Klang and Akustik can both be important when listening in a room. Klang refers to the perceived character of a voice or instrument. Akustik refers to the room's acoustic properties and how it transmits sound.
Akustik
Die gute Akustik des Konzertsaals machte das Klavier überall klar hörbar.
The concert hall's excellent acoustics made the piano clearly audible everywhere.
Klang
Der warme Klang des Klaviers begeisterte das Publikum im Konzertsaal.
The piano's warm sound delighted the audience in the concert hall.
In real life
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