01
die Formel
formula
A rule or relationship expressed with mathematical or chemical signs and symbols.
example
Die chemische Formel für Wasser ist H₂O.
The chemical formula for water is H₂O.
die Formel
formula
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clues
The meaning of 'Formel' depends strongly on the topic. In science, it has to do with mathematics or chemistry; in letters, with closing formulas; and in sports, with 'Formel 1' (Formula 1).
EXAMPLE
Er kennt die Formel zur Berechnung des Flächeninhalts.
He knows the formula for calculating area.
Typical verbs
In a scientific context, a formula is often 'aufgestellt' (set up), 'entwickelt' (developed), 'angewendet' (applied), or 'umgestellt' (rearranged).
EXAMPLE
Können Sie diese physikalische Formel anwenden?
Can you apply this physical formula?
Typical collocations
For fixed combinations of words, 'Formel' is often used in compounds, e.g. 'die Grußformel' (the closing formula) at the end of a letter, 'die Zauberformel' (the magic formula) in fairy tales, or 'die Rechtsformel' (the legal formula) in law.
EXAMPLE
Seine Entschuldigung war nur eine leere Formel.
His apology was just an empty formula.
Fixed expression
The best-known use in sports is 'Formel 1' (Formula 1). This expression refers to the highest class of motor racing and is treated as a fixed term.
EXAMPLE
Millionen von Menschen schauen sich die Rennen der Formel 1 an.
Millions of people watch Formula 1 races.
Figurative meaning
The meaning 'Rezept' (recipe) or 'Anleitung' (instructions) is often used metaphorically. 'Die Formel für den Erfolg' (the formula for success), for example, describes a way to become successful.
EXAMPLE
Es gibt keine einfache Formel für eine glückliche Beziehung.
There is no simple formula for a happy relationship.
Compare with
Formel vs Funktion
function
'die Funktion' and 'die Formel' can be confused, especially in mathematics. A 'Funktion' describes how one value is assigned to another value. A 'Formel' is the notation with numbers, letters, and symbols used to express a relationship. So a function can be described by a formula, but they are not the same thing. Memory tip: the function is the rule or assignment; the formula is often the visible mathematical notation.
Formel
In der Schule lernen wir heute eine neue Formel für die Fläche.
At school today, we are learning a new formula for area.
Funktion
Die Funktion zeigt, wie sich der Preis ändert, wenn die Menge größer wird.
The function shows how the price changes when the quantity increases.
In real life
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