strength / firmness
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strength
In physics and materials science, the property of a material to withstand mechanical stresses such as tension or pressure without breaking or permanently deforming.
Die Festigkeit von Stahl ist deutlich höher als die von Aluminium.
The strength of steel is significantly higher than that of aluminum.
'Festigkeit' (strength/firmness) is derived from the adjective 'fest' (stable, solid). The ending '-igkeit' turns the adjective into a noun that describes the quality or state of 'being firm/solid.' This basic idea appears in all meanings.
Die Festigkeit des Seils wurde vor dem Klettern geprüft.
The strength of the rope was checked before climbing.
The meaning can be recognized well from context. If it is about materials like metal or wood, the physical property is meant. If people are talking about a person, it refers to strength of character. With relationships like friendship, it refers to the stability of the bond.
Die Ingenieure testen die Festigkeit des Betons.
The engineers are testing the strength of the concrete.
In the meaning of a material property, 'Festigkeit' (strength) is mainly used in technical and scientific fields such as physics, civil engineering, or mechanical engineering.
Für diese Konstruktion benötigen wir ein Material von hoher Festigkeit.
For this construction, we need a material of high strength.
When it is about strength of character, 'Festigkeit' (firmness) is often combined with abstract nouns, for example 'die Festigkeit des Willens' (firmness of will), 'die Festigkeit der Überzeugung' (firmness of conviction), or 'moralische Festigkeit' (moral firmness).
Trotz aller Kritik zeigte sie eine bewundernswerte Festigkeit in ihrer Haltung.
Despite all the criticism, she showed admirable firmness in her position.
strength / starch
'die Stärke' and 'die Festigkeit' can both describe something strong or able to withstand stress. 'die Stärke' is more general: it can refer to an ability, physical strength, or the intensity of something. 'die Festigkeit' more often means stability and resistance. With materials, it describes how well something withstands pressure or tension. With people, it is about steadfastness, and with relationships, about a stable connection. Learners may confuse the words because both are related to 'stark' (strong). When it is about strength or a good quality, 'Stärke' often fits. When something is meant to be firm, stable, or resistant, 'Festigkeit' fits better.
Der Handwerker prüft die Festigkeit des neuen Regals, bevor er schwere Kisten daraufstellt.
The craftsman checks the strength of the new shelf before placing heavy boxes on it.
Im Gespräch zeigt sie viel Stärke, obwohl die Situation schwierig ist.
In the conversation, she shows a lot of strength, even though the situation is difficult.