gift
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gift
Something that you give someone out of friendship, appreciation, or for a special occasion without expecting payment in return.
Zu meinem Geburtstag habe ich ein schönes Buch als Geschenk bekommen.
For my birthday, I received a beautiful book as a gift.
gift
A special ability, a talent, or a very positive circumstance that is not taken for granted.
Ihre musikalische Begabung ist ein wahres Geschenk.
Her musical talent is a true gift.
The noun 'Geschenk' (gift) is derived directly from the verb 'schenken' (to give as a gift). The prefix 'Ge-' is often used to form nouns from verbs that describe the result of the action.
Er liebt es, seiner Freundin Blumen zu schenken.
He loves giving his girlfriend flowers.
In German, you often 'make' a gift: 'ein Geschenk machen' (to give a gift). Other common verbs are 'ein Geschenk bekommen' (to receive a gift), 'ein Geschenk auspacken' (to unwrap a gift), or 'Geschenke verteilen' (to hand out gifts).
Was für ein schönes Geschenk du mir gemacht hast!
What a beautiful gift you gave me!
Besides a material object, 'Geschenk' (gift) can also describe a special ability or a fortunate circumstance. In this case, it is used in a figurative, metaphorical sense.
Dass wir alle gesund sind, ist das größte Geschenk.
The fact that we are all healthy is the greatest gift.
talent
Both words can refer to a special natural ability. Talent directly describes the ability. Geschenk adds the evaluation that the same ability is something very positive and not to be taken for granted, something the person has received.
Lenas außergewöhnliches musikalisches Gehör ist ein Geschenk.
Lena's extraordinary musical ear is a gift.
Lenas außergewöhnliches musikalisches Gehör zeigt ihr großes Talent.
Lena's extraordinary musical ear shows her great talent.
