sign / indication
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sign / indication
A clue, symptom, or feature that points to something future or already existing. The word is the plural form of 'das Anzeichen' (the sign/indication) and is used almost exclusively in this form.
Müdigkeit und Kopfschmerzen können erste Anzeichen einer Erkältung sein.
Tiredness and headaches can be the first signs of a cold.
The word 'Anzeichen' consists of the prefix 'an' and the noun 'das Zeichen' (the sign). It therefore describes a sign that points to something or announces something.
Ein dunkler Himmel ist oft ein Zeichen für Regen.
A dark sky is often a sign of rain.
Although the singular form 'das Anzeichen' exists, the word is almost always used in the plural, 'die Anzeichen' (the signs). People rarely speak of just one single sign.
Es gibt deutliche Anzeichen für eine wirtschaftliche Erholung.
There are clear signs of an economic recovery.
To express what the signs point to, you usually use the preposition 'für' followed by the accusative. Alternatively, especially in written language, the genitive can also be used.
Das sind die ersten Anzeichen für den Frühling.
These are the first signs of spring.
Common combinations are 'erste Anzeichen' (first signs), 'deutliche Anzeichen' (clear signs), or 'keinerlei Anzeichen' (no signs at all). It is often used in connection with illnesses, the weather, or social developments.
Der Patient zeigt keinerlei Anzeichen von Fieber mehr.
The patient no longer shows any signs of fever.
sign / symbol
Both Zeichen and Anzeichen can point to a condition or a development. Anzeichen always has this indicating function. Zeichen is broader and can also refer to other types of messages; in this context, however, both words are possible.
Der sinkende Wasserstand ist ein Anzeichen für die anhaltende Trockenheit.
The falling water level is an indication of the ongoing drought.
Der sinkende Wasserstand ist ein Zeichen für die anhaltende Trockenheit.
The falling water level is a sign of the ongoing drought.
