elasticity
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elasticity
The physical property of a body or material to return to its original shape after being deformed by an external force.
Gummibänder sind für ihre hohe Elastizität bekannt.
Rubber bands are known for their high elasticity.
flexibility
In a figurative sense, the ability to adapt flexibly to new circumstances or to recover quickly from difficulties and setbacks; mental flexibility or resilience.
In der heutigen Arbeitswelt ist geistige Elastizität wichtiger denn je.
In today's world of work, mental flexibility is more important than ever.
The noun 'Elastizität' (elasticity) is formed from the adjective 'elastisch' (elastic) with the ending '-ität' (-ity). This ending is often used with loanwords to create an abstract noun, for example in 'Aktivität' (activity) or 'Qualität' (quality).
Die Flexibilität des Materials ist beeindruckend.
The flexibility of the material is impressive.
The context makes the meaning clear. If people are talking about materials, skin, or muscles, the physical property is meant. In connection with thinking, work, or personality, mental adaptability is meant.
Regelmäßiges Dehnen verbessert die Elastizität der Muskeln.
Regular stretching improves the elasticity of the muscles.
In the physical sense, people often speak of the 'Elastizität eines Materials' (elasticity of a material) or say that something 'an Elastizität verliert' (loses elasticity). In the figurative sense, the phrase 'geistige Elastizität' (mental flexibility) is very common.
Mit dem Alter verliert die Haut an Elastizität.
With age, skin loses elasticity.
flexibility
For a material, Flexibilität means that it can be bent without breaking. Elastizität additionally requires it to return to its original shape after being deformed. A flexible material therefore does not have to be elastic, although a material can have both properties.
Dank seiner Elastizität nimmt der Kunststoffstreifen nach dem Biegen wieder seine alte Form an.
Thanks to its elasticity, the plastic strip returns to its original shape after being bent.
Die Flexibilität des Kunststoffstreifens erlaubt starkes Biegen, ohne dass er bricht.
The plastic strip's flexibility allows it to be bent sharply without breaking.
