01
das Geschick
skill
The ability to do something, especially with the hands, precisely and expertly.
example
Sie reparierte die filigrane Uhr mit großem Geschick.
She repaired the delicate watch with great skill.
das Geschick
skill / fate
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Geschick' (skill/fate) is closely related to the adjective 'geschickt' (skilled, capable). Both words derive from the verb 'schicken' (to send), which explains the second meaning 'Schicksal' (fate, something that is 'sent' to someone).
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein sehr geschickter Handwerker.
He is a very skilled craftsman.
Typical combinations
In the meaning 'Fähigkeit' (ability/skill), 'Geschick' (skill) is often combined with verbs such as 'haben' (to have), 'beweisen' (to prove/demonstrate), or 'zeigen' (to show). People also speak of 'handwerklichem Geschick' (manual skill) or 'diplomatischem Geschick' (diplomatic skill).
EXAMPLE
Für diese Bastelarbeit braucht man viel Geschick.
For this craft project, you need a lot of skill.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning 'Schicksal' (fate) from the context. It is used for the course of life of people, companies, or even countries. The meaning 'Fähigkeit' (ability/skill), on the other hand, usually refers to concrete actions.
EXAMPLE
Er nahm das Geschick seiner Familie selbst in die Hand.
He took the fate of his family into his own hands.
Register and style
The use of 'Geschick' in the sense of 'Schicksal' (fate) is rather elevated and is found more often in literature or formal speeches than in everyday language.
EXAMPLE
Der Dichter schrieb über das tragische Geschick des Helden.
The poet wrote about the tragic fate of the hero.
Compare with
Geschick vs Schicksal
fate
'das Schicksal' and 'das Geschick' can both mean a person's path in life or lot. In this meaning, however, 'Geschick' is rather elevated or literary and much less common in everyday language. It is also important that 'Geschick' very often means the ability to do something well and skillfully, especially with the hands. That is why learners may confuse the words. For normal everyday language and life events, 'Schicksal' is usually the natural word. 'Geschick' in the sense of fate is more appropriate in formal or literary texts.
Geschick
In dem alten Roman entscheidet das Geschick des Helden über Krieg und Frieden.
In the old novel, the hero's fate determines war and peace.
Schicksal
Das Schicksal der Familie bewegte die ganze Nachbarschaft.
The fate of the family moved the whole neighborhood.
In real life
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