magnetic
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magnetic
Having the property of attracting or repelling certain metals such as iron, as a magnet does.
Die Kompassnadel ist magnetisch und richtet sich immer nach dem Magnetfeld der Erde aus.
The compass needle is magnetic and always aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field.
magnetic
In a figurative sense, exerting a strong, almost irresistible attraction on other people.
Er hat eine magnetische Persönlichkeit, der sich kaum jemand entziehen kann.
He has a magnetic personality that hardly anyone can resist.
The adjective 'magnetisch' (magnetic) is derived directly from the noun 'der Magnet' (magnet). The ending '-isch' (-ic/-ical) is a typical way to form an adjective from a noun.
Einige Metalle haben magnetische Eigenschaften.
Some metals have magnetic properties.
The physical meaning can be recognized from the context of science and technology (e.g., field, pole, metal). The figurative meaning always refers to people and their effect on others (e.g., personality, smile, charisma).
Das magnetische Feld der Erde schützt uns vor Sonnenwind.
The Earth's magnetic field protects us from solar wind.
In the physical sense, 'magnetisch' (magnetic) is often used in fixed combinations, such as 'magnetisches Feld' (magnetic field), 'magnetische Anziehung' (magnetic attraction), or 'magnetische Kraft' (magnetic force).
Die magnetische Anziehung zwischen den beiden Polen ist sehr stark.
The magnetic attraction between the two poles is very strong.
When referring to people, 'magnetisch' (magnetic) describes a strong, positive attraction. Typical combinations are 'eine magnetische Persönlichkeit' (a magnetic personality), 'ein magnetisches Lächeln' (a magnetic smile), or 'eine magnetische Ausstrahlung' (a magnetic charisma/presence).
Er hat ein magnetisches Lächeln, das jeden sofort für ihn einnimmt.
He has a magnetic smile that immediately wins everyone over.
attractive / attracting
Magnetisch and anziehend describe an attractive effect in people. Anziehend generally means that someone inspires interest or sympathy. Magnetisch describes a particularly strong, almost irresistible attraction and is appropriate when the effect seems exceptionally intense.
Die Schauspielerin hatte eine magnetische Ausstrahlung, der sich das Publikum kaum entziehen konnte.
The actress had a magnetic presence that the audience could hardly resist.
Die Schauspielerin hatte eine anziehende Ausstrahlung und gewann schnell die Sympathie des Publikums.
The actress had an appealing presence and quickly won the audience's sympathy.
