contour
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contour
The outer outline of a figure, object, or surface. It defines the shape and sets it apart from the background.
Im dichten Nebel waren nur die schwachen Konturen der Bäume zu erkennen.
In the thick fog, only the faint contours of the trees could be made out.
outline / profile
In a figurative sense, the basic features or recognizable profile of something abstract, such as a plan, an idea, or a personality. Often used in the phrase 'Kontur annehmen' (to take shape).
Das Reformprojekt der Regierung gewinnt langsam an Kontur.
The government's reform project is slowly gaining definition.
The adjective 'konturlos' (without clear contours / vague) is derived from the noun 'Kontur' (contour). It describes something that has no clear profile or recognizable character.
Ohne eine klare Strategie bleibt der Plan der Firma konturlos.
Without a clear strategy, the company's plan remains vague.
When referring to the visibility of outlines, 'Kontur' (contour) is often combined with adjectives such as 'scharf' (sharp), 'deutlich' (distinct), or 'klar' (clear). The opposites are 'schwache' (faint), 'unscharfe' (blurred), or 'vage' (vague) contours.
Durch den Regen konnte man nur die unscharfen Konturen des Hauses sehen.
Because of the rain, you could only see the blurred contours of the house.
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the context. If 'Kontur' (contour) refers to abstract things such as a plan, an idea, or a concept, the figurative meaning is intended.
Die Idee für das neue Buch hat noch keine feste Kontur.
The idea for the new book does not yet have a definite shape.
In the figurative meaning, 'Kontur' (contour) is often used in fixed expressions. Typical phrases are 'Kontur annehmen' (to take shape), 'Kontur gewinnen' (to gain definition), or 'etwas Kontur verleihen' (to give something definition).
Wir müssen dem Projekt mehr Kontur verleihen, damit es genehmigt wird.
We need to give the project more definition so that it will be approved.
line
A Linie can be any visible line or mark. A Kontur is more specific: it forms the outer outline of a figure or object and sets it apart from the background. Use „Linie“ for any mark and „Kontur“ when you mean the outer shape.
Der Künstler zeichnet die Kontur der Figur deutlich vor dem hellen Hintergrund.
The artist clearly draws the figure's outline against the light background.
Der Künstler setzt mit einer schwarzen Linie eine Markierung neben die Figur.
The artist uses a black line to make a mark next to the figure.
