turning point / cut
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turning point
An important, often drastic event that marks a clear change or turning point in life, history, or a process.
Der Tod seiner Frau war ein tiefer Einschnitt in seinem Leben.
The death of his wife was a profound turning point in his life.
The word 'Einschnitt' derives from the verb 'einschneiden' (to cut into). It literally describes a 'Schnitt' (cut) into something. This basic idea applies both to the physical notch and to the figurative turning point in life.
Die Erfindung des Internets war ein tiefer Einschnitt in der Geschichte der Kommunikation.
The invention of the internet was a profound turning point in the history of communication.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If 'Einschnitt' refers to abstract things like 'Leben' (life), 'Karriere' (career), or 'Geschichte' (history), it means a turning point. If it refers to concrete things like 'Holz' (wood), 'Fels' (rock), or 'Gelände' (terrain), it means a physical cut.
Der Umzug in ein anderes Land war ein großer Einschnitt für die ganze Familie.
The move to another country was a major turning point for the whole family.
In the figurative meaning, 'Einschnitt' (turning point) is often combined with strong adjectives such as 'tief' (deep / profound), 'gravierend' (serious), 'einschneidend' (drastic), or 'historisch' (historic). It also frequently appears with the preposition 'in' and the dative.
Die Diagnose war ein gravierender Einschnitt in ihrem Leben.
The diagnosis was a serious turning point in her life.
cut
'der Schnitt' and 'der Einschnitt' can both refer to a place created by cutting. 'Schnitt' is more general and also works for an injury or an opening in a material. 'Einschnitt' more often means a notch or indentation made in a surface. It often sounds more deliberate or stronger than 'Schnitt'. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with cutting. Also important: 'Einschnitt' can additionally mean an important event that changes a lot. In this figurative meaning, 'Schnitt' does not fit.
Der Umzug in eine andere Stadt war ein großer Einschnitt für die ganze Familie.
Moving to another city was a major turning point for the whole family.
Der Schnitt am Finger ist klein, aber er brennt beim Händewaschen.
The cut on my finger is small, but it stings when I wash my hands.