Related to the sense of hearing, sound, or the study of sound (acoustics).
example
Die Kirche hat eine hervorragende Akustik, deshalb war das Konzert ein akustisches Erlebnis.
The church has excellent acoustics, so the concert was an acoustic experience.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'akustisch' (acoustic) is derived directly from the noun 'die Akustik' (acoustics). The ending '-isch' is a typical ending for adjectives that express belonging or relation.
EXAMPLE
Die akustischen Eigenschaften des Raumes wurden von einem Experten geprüft.
The acoustic properties of the room were checked by an expert.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from context. If people are talking about musical instruments or a recording, 'akustisch' (acoustic) usually means 'without electrical amplification.' In all other cases, it generally refers to sound or hearing.
EXAMPLE
Das akustische Signal warnt die Mitarbeiter vor der Gefahr.
The acoustic signal warns the employees of the danger.
Typical collocations
In the general meaning, 'akustisch' (acoustic) is often connected with perception and signals: ein akustisches Signal (an acoustic signal), eine akustische Täuschung (an auditory illusion), akustische Reize (acoustic stimuli).
EXAMPLE
Ein lauter Knall ist ein starker akustischer Reiz.
A loud bang is a strong acoustic stimulus.
Typical collocations
In a musical context, typical combinations are: eine akustische Gitarre (an acoustic guitar), eine akustische Version (eines Liedes) (an acoustic version of a song), or ein akustisches Album (an acoustic album).
EXAMPLE
Viele Bands nehmen eine akustische Version ihrer Hits auf.
Many bands record an acoustic version of their hits.
Compare with
antonym · confusable
akustisch vs elektrisch
electric
'elektrisch' and 'akustisch' can form a contrast in music and technology. 'elektrisch' means that something works with electricity or is amplified, for example an electric guitar. 'akustisch' relates to sound and hearing; in music, it often means instruments without electric amplification. The words can be confused when talking about devices, sound, or music. Remember: 'elektrisch' is about electricity, while 'akustisch' is about sound or hearing.
akustisch
Die Band spielte am Abend ein akustisches Konzert ohne große Verstärker.
That evening, the band played an acoustic concert without large amplifiers.
elektrisch
Yusuf kauft eine elektrische Zahnbürste für die Reise.