analogy
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analogy
A correspondence, similarity, or sameness of relationships between two otherwise different things. Analogies are often used to explain complex matters by comparing them with something familiar.
Um die Funktion des Herzens zu erklären, benutzte der Lehrer die Analogie einer Pumpe.
To explain the function of the heart, the teacher used the analogy of a pump.
'Analogie' (analogy) is often used in the fixed expression 'in Analogie zu' + dative. This means 'corresponding to' or 'similar to.'
In Analogie zu einem Computer kann man das Gehirn als komplexes Netzwerk betrachten.
By analogy with a computer, the brain can be viewed as a complex network.
In the general meaning, 'Analogie' (analogy) is often combined with verbs such as 'herstellen' (to establish), 'ziehen' (to draw), 'finden' (to find), or 'verwenden' (to use). Typical adjectives are 'treffend' (apt), 'passend' (suitable), or 'einfach' (simple).
Er versuchte, eine passende Analogie für das komplexe Problem zu finden.
He tried to find a suitable analogy for the complex problem.
The meanings in biology and linguistics are technical terms. You can recognize them by the fact that the text is clearly dealing with these scientific topics. The general meaning can occur in almost any context.
Die Flügel einer Fledermaus und die Arme eines Menschen sind homolog, keine Analogie.
The wings of a bat and the arms of a human are homologous, not an analogy.
comparison / settlement
'der Vergleich' and 'die Analogie' both have to do with similarities between different things. In a comparison, you generally look at similarities and differences. An analogy is more specific: it shows that two things function similarly in their structure or in their relationship. You often use an analogy to explain something difficult with something familiar. The words can be confusing because every analogy is a kind of comparison. But not every comparison is an analogy.
Die Lehrerin erklärt das Stromnetz mit einer Analogie zum Wasserkreislauf.
The teacher explains the power grid using an analogy with the water cycle.
Vor dem Kauf macht er einen Vergleich der beiden Fahrräder.
Before buying, he makes a comparison of the two bicycles.