A particularly skillful, often surprising or difficult action that is usually performed for entertainment, for example in a circus or at a magic show.
example
Der Akrobat vollführte ein atemberaubendes Kunststück auf dem Hochseil.
The acrobat performed a breathtaking stunt on the high wire.
Usage tips
Word composition
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).
EXAMPLE
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.
Typical verbs
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).
EXAMPLE
Der Zauberer führte ein verblüffendes Kunststück mit den Karten vor.
The magician performed an astonishing card trick.
Usage pattern
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.
EXAMPLE
Es ist ein echtes Kunststück, bei dem Lärm konzentriert zu bleiben.
It is a real feat to stay focused with that noise.
Context clue
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).
EXAMPLE
Der Hund kann einige lustige Kunststücke.
The dog can do a few funny tricks.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Kunststück vs Nummer
number
'Nummer' and 'Kunststück' can both occur in a performance, for example in a circus or a show. 'Nummer' means a whole act or program item. That can be a song, a dance, a joke, or also a 'Kunststück' (trick / stunt). 'Kunststück', on the other hand, means a particularly skillful or difficult action that someone performs. The words can be confused because a 'Kunststück' is often part of a 'Nummer'. If you mean the program item, use 'Nummer'. If you mean the special feat or trick, use 'Kunststück'.
Kunststück
Der Artist zeigte ein gefährliches Kunststück auf dem Seil.
The performer did a dangerous stunt on the tightrope.
Nummer
Nach der Pause kam eine lustige Nummer mit zwei Clowns.
After the break, there was a funny act with two clowns.