striking / distinctive
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striking
Noticeable, pronounced, and memorable. It is often used to describe facial features, a voice, or a personality.
Der Schauspieler ist für seine markante Nase und seine tiefe Stimme bekannt.
The actor is known for his striking nose and his deep voice.
The adjective 'markant' (striking/distinctive) is related to the German verb 'markieren' (to mark). Something 'Markantes' (striking/distinctive) is so noticeable that it is as if it had been specially marked or 'markiert' (marked).
Er hat eine sehr markante Art zu sprechen, die man sofort wiedererkennt.
He has a very distinctive way of speaking that you recognize immediately.
To describe people, 'markant' (striking) is often combined with parts of the face or qualities of the voice: 'markante Gesichtszüge' (striking facial features), 'ein markantes Kinn' (a striking chin), or 'eine markante Stimme' (a striking voice).
Sie erkannte ihn sofort an seinem markanten Profil.
She recognized him immediately by his striking profile.
When it comes to places or orientation, 'markant' (distinctive) often describes noticeable points in a landscape or a building: 'ein markanter Baum' (a distinctive tree), 'ein markantes Gebäude' (a distinctive building), or 'ein markanter Punkt' (a distinctive point).
Der Treffpunkt ist vor dem markanten Turm am Ende der Straße.
The meeting point is in front of the distinctive tower at the end of the street.
clear / clearly
'deutlich' and 'markant' both describe something that can be perceived or recognized well. Use 'deutlich' when something is clear, understandable, or unambiguous: a voice, handwriting, a difference, or a sign. 'markant' is more about being striking and memorable. It often fits a face, a voice, a building, or a point in the landscape. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with recognizability. The difference is: 'deutlich' emphasizes clarity, while 'markant' emphasizes strikingness and distinctive character.
An der markanten Kirche am Marktplatz biegen wir nach links ab.
At the distinctive church on the market square, we turn left.
Bitte sprich etwas deutlicher, ich verstehe dich wegen des Lärms kaum.
Please speak a little more clearly; I can hardly understand you because of the noise.