integral
Essential, fundamental, or indispensable to a whole; a firmly belonging part of it.
EXAMPLE
Vertrauen ist ein integraler Bestandteil einer funktionierenden Partnerschaft.
Trust is an integral part of a functioning partnership.
integral
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Meanings
integral
In mathematics, relating to an integral or integral calculus.
EXAMPLE
Die Aufgabe erfordert die Berechnung einer integralen Funktion.
The exercise requires calculating an integral function.
Usage tips
Context clue
You can tell from the context whether the general or the mathematical meaning is intended. Words like 'Bestandteil' (component) or 'Teil' (part) point to the general meaning, while terms like 'Funktion' (function) or 'Rechnung' (calculation) refer to mathematics.
EXAMPLE
Kreativität ist ein integraler Teil des Designs.
Creativity is an integral part of design.
Typical collocation
The adjective 'integral' is very often used in the fixed phrase 'integraler Bestandteil' (integral part/component). It emphasizes that something is an essential and inseparable part of a whole.
EXAMPLE
Die Einhaltung der Menschenrechte ist ein integraler Bestandteil einer Demokratie.
Respect for human rights is an integral part of a democracy.
Elevated style
In its general meaning, 'integral' belongs to elevated written language or formal contexts. It is rarely used in everyday conversation.
EXAMPLE
Die ethische Reflexion ist ein integraler Aspekt des Forschungsprojekts.
Ethical reflection is an integral aspect of the research project.
Compare with
integral vs wesentlich
essential / significantly
Wesentlich and integral can both describe an important component. Wesentlich primarily emphasizes its great importance, while integral additionally emphasizes that it is firmly part of the whole. Use wesentlich for a very important part; for a part that is inseparably integrated, integral is more precise.
integral
Eine sorgfältige Planung ist ein integraler Bestandteil des Projekts und fest in dessen Ablauf eingebunden.
Careful planning is an integral part of the project and is firmly integrated into its process.
wesentlich
Eine sorgfältige Planung ist ein wesentlicher Bestandteil des Projekts, weil sie seinen Erfolg stark beeinflusst.
Careful planning is an essential part of the project because it strongly influences its success.
In real life
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