impairment / adverse effect
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adverse effect
A negative effect, disruption, or restriction that reduces the function, performance, or quality of something or someone.
Der Baulärm stellt eine erhebliche Beeinträchtigung der Lebensqualität dar.
The construction noise constitutes a significant adverse effect on quality of life.
The noun 'Beeinträchtigung' (impairment/adverse effect) is derived from the verb 'beeinträchtigen' (to impair). The ending '-ung' turns a verb into a feminine noun that describes the action or its result.
Die ständige Beeinträchtigung durch den Lärm macht die Anwohner krank.
The constant impairment caused by the noise is making the residents ill.
The cause or area of the 'Beeinträchtigung' (impairment/adverse effect) is often indicated with the genitive or with the preposition 'durch' (+ accusative). Both constructions are very common.
Die Beeinträchtigung des Verkehrs war erheblich.
The disruption to traffic was significant.
When a health-related limitation is being discussed, 'Beeinträchtigung' (impairment) is often combined with adjectives such as 'körperlich' (physical), 'geistig' (mental), 'seelisch' (emotional), or 'kognitiv' (cognitive). These words clearly signal the meaning of a disability or health disorder.
Er erhält Unterstützung aufgrund seiner schweren körperlichen Beeinträchtigung.
He receives support because of his severe physical impairment.
damage / harm
'der Schaden' and 'die Beeinträchtigung' both describe a negative effect. 'Schaden' is often more concrete and stronger: an object is damaged, or a person has suffered a clear disadvantage. 'Beeinträchtigung' emphasizes more that something works less well, is less possible, or is restricted. The word sounds somewhat more factual and is often used for health, performance, or quality. If a car is broken after an accident, you usually say 'Schaden'. If noise disrupts work or an illness limits everyday life, 'Beeinträchtigung' fits well.
Wegen der lauten Baustelle gibt es eine starke Beeinträchtigung beim Lernen.
Because of the noisy construction site, there is a serious disruption to studying.
Nach dem Sturm prüft der Hausmeister den Schaden am Dach.
After the storm, the caretaker checks the damage to the roof.