feat / trick
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trick / stunt
A particularly skillful, often surprising or difficult action that is usually performed for entertainment, for example in a circus or at a magic show.
Der Akrobat vollführte ein atemberaubendes Kunststück auf dem Hochseil.
The acrobat performed a breathtaking stunt on the high wire.
feat
A very difficult or complicated task that someone has successfully mastered. It is often used appreciatively for a clever or unexpected achievement.
Es war ein echtes Kunststück, die Verhandlungen in so kurzer Zeit zu einem erfolgreichen Abschluss zu bringen.
It was a real feat to bring the negotiations to a successful conclusion in such a short time.
The word is made up of 'Kunst' (art/skill) and 'Stück' (piece). So it describes a 'piece' that is so difficult or impressive that it requires great skill or 'Kunst' (art/skill).
Es war ein Kunststück, alle Möbel allein in den dritten Stock zu tragen.
It was a feat to carry all the furniture up to the third floor by myself.
When referring to a performance, 'Kunststück' (trick/stunt) is often used with the verbs 'vorführen' (to perform/demonstrate), 'vollführen' (to perform), or 'zeigen' (to show).
Der Zauberer führte ein verblüffendes Kunststück mit den Karten vor.
The magician performed an astonishing card trick.
To describe a difficult achievement, the fixed structure 'Es ist ein Kunststück, ... zu ...' (It is a feat to ...) is often used. This emphasizes the difficulty of the task.
Es ist ein echtes Kunststück, bei dem Lärm konzentriert zu bleiben.
It is a real feat to stay focused with that noise.
The first meaning usually refers to a physical performance put on display (circus, sports, magic). The second meaning appreciatively describes successfully handling any difficult task, often an abstract one (organization, negotiation).
Der Hund kann einige lustige Kunststücke.
The dog can do a few funny tricks.
trick
When describing a surprising performance, both words can refer to the same action. Trick focuses more on the hidden method or deception, while Kunststück emphasizes the special skill and difficulty involved. When talking about the technique, “Trick” is appropriate; when the achievement is the focus, “Kunststück” is the better choice.
Das Kunststück mit den drei Karten gelang dem Zauberer trotz seiner Schwierigkeit.
Despite its difficulty, the magician managed the feat with the three cards.
Der Zauberer erklärte später, wie sein Trick mit den drei Karten funktionierte.
The magician later explained how his trick with the three cards worked.
