key point / vertex
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key point
In a figurative sense, an essential, fundamental point or component of a concept, plan, or agreement.
Die Minister haben sich auf die Eckpunkte der Gesundheitsreform geeinigt.
The ministers agreed on the key points of the healthcare reform.
The word is composed of 'Ecke' (corner) and 'Punkt' (point). The literal meaning, 'point at a corner,' helps you understand both meanings: the geometric point and the figurative 'important point' in a plan.
Ein Dreieck wird durch drei Eckpunkte definiert.
A triangle is defined by three vertices.
The context makes the meaning clear. If people are talking about geometry or shapes, it means the point of a figure. In discussions about politics, plans, or contracts, it refers to the most important, fundamental components.
Die Eckpunkte des Würfels wurden markiert.
The vertices of the cube were marked.
In the figurative sense, 'Eckpunkte' (key points) is often used with verbs such as 'festlegen' (to define), 'vereinbaren' (to agree on), or 'beschließen' (to decide/adopt). People often speak of the key points of a concept, a paper, or a reform.
Lassen Sie uns zunächst die Eckpunkte für das Projekt festlegen.
Let us first define the key points for the project.
basis / foundation
'die Grundlage' and 'der Eckpunkt' can both refer to something important in a plan, concept, or argument. 'Grundlage' means more the basis or foundation on which everything else rests or develops. 'Eckpunkt' means a particularly important individual key point that helps define the plan. They can be confused because both sound important and fundamental. If you are talking about the foundation of an idea, use 'Grundlage' rather than 'Eckpunkt'. If you are naming several central points of a plan, 'Eckpunkte' is very natural.
Im Gespräch haben wir die wichtigsten Eckpunkte des neuen Projekts festgelegt.
In the discussion, we defined the most important key points of the new project.
Vertrauen ist die Grundlage für eine gute Zusammenarbeit.
Trust is the foundation for good cooperation.