A branch of mathematics that deals with points, lines, surfaces, and solids, as well as their properties, positions, and relationships to one another.
example
Der Satz des Pythagoras ist ein fundamentaler Lehrsatz der euklidischen Geometrie.
The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental theorem of Euclidean geometry.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word comes from Ancient Greek and literally means 'earth measurement' ('geo' for earth, 'metron' for measure). This origin reminds us that geometry was historically developed for surveying land.
EXAMPLE
Die alten Ägypter nutzten die Geometrie zur Landvermessung nach den Nilfluten.
The ancient Egyptians used geometry for land surveying after the Nile floods.
Word family
The related adjective is 'geometrisch' (geometric). It is used to describe shapes and patterns, for example 'eine geometrische Form' (a geometric shape) or 'ein geometrisches Muster' (a geometric pattern).
EXAMPLE
Viele Muster in der islamischen Kunst sind geometrisch.
Many patterns in Islamic art are geometric.
Context clue
You can distinguish the meanings easily. If 'Geometrie' (geometry) is mentioned as a school subject or field of science, it refers to mathematics. If it describes the specific shape of an object, it refers to that object's structure.
EXAMPLE
In der achten Klasse hatten wir Geometrie als Teil des Mathematikunterrichts.
In eighth grade, we had geometry as part of math class.
Use with genitive
When 'Geometrie' (geometry) describes the shape of an object, it often appears with a genitive or the preposition 'von' (of). Typical phrases are 'die Geometrie eines Gebäudes' (the geometry of a building) or 'die Geometrie eines Moleküls' (the geometry of a molecule).
EXAMPLE
Die Symmetrie in der Geometrie des Kristalls ist faszinierend.
The symmetry in the geometry of the crystal is fascinating.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Geometrie vs Form
form / shape
'die Form' and 'die Geometrie' can both describe how something looks spatially. 'die Form' is more general and suitable for everyday use: you use it to talk about the outer shape of an object. 'die Geometrie' sounds more precise and technical. It describes not only the outer shape, but also the spatial arrangement and structure. It can be used, for example, with machines, buildings, or technical parts. The words can be confused because both have to do with shape. If you are simply saying what something looks like, 'Form' is more natural. If the exact spatial structure is important, 'Geometrie' fits better.
Geometrie
Bei diesem Bauteil muss die Geometrie sehr genau stimmen.
With this component, the geometry has to be very precise.
Form
Die Vase hat eine einfache Form und passt gut auf den Tisch.
The vase has a simple shape and fits well on the table.