check mark / small cross
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check mark
A small cross, usually in the form of an X, that you make to mark, select, or identify something. It is the diminutive form of 'Kreuz' (cross).
Bitte machen Sie bei der richtigen Antwort ein Kreuzchen.
Please put a check mark next to the correct answer.
'Kreuzchen' (small cross/check mark) is the diminutive form of 'das Kreuz' (the cross). The ending '-chen' makes the word small and always gives it the article 'das'.
Für die Umfrage mussten wir nur ein paar Kreuzchen auf einem Formular machen.
For the survey, we only had to make a few check marks on a form.
When marking something, the most common and natural verb combination is 'ein Kreuzchen machen' (to make a check mark). Less common, but also correct, is 'ein Kreuzchen setzen' (to put/place a check mark).
Vergiss nicht, auf dem Stimmzettel bei deinem Kandidaten ein Kreuzchen zu machen.
Don't forget to put a check mark next to your candidate on the ballot.
Whether a mark (X) or a piece of jewelry is meant can be recognized from context. Verbs like 'machen' (to make) or 'setzen' (to put/place) point to the mark, while verbs like 'tragen' (to wear) or words like 'Kette' (chain/necklace) point to jewelry.
Er machte sein Kreuzchen bei der Partei, die er wählte.
He put his check mark next to the party he voted for.
cross
'das Kreuz' and 'das Kreuzchen' both refer to a shape with two intersecting lines. 'das Kreuz' is the normal word and can be a sign, a figure, or also a Christian symbol. 'das Kreuzchen' is the small form of it. Especially often, it means a small X that you make in order to check or mark something. The words can be confused because 'Kreuzchen' comes from 'Kreuz'. When it is about a general or larger symbol, you say 'Kreuz'. For forms, lists, and small marks, 'Kreuzchen' is more natural.
Vor dem Termin setzt ihr noch ein Kreuzchen neben euren Namen.
Before the appointment, you still put a small cross next to your names.
Über dem Eingang der alten Kirche hängt ein großes Kreuz.
A large cross hangs above the entrance to the old church.