mechanical
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mechanical
Relating to mechanics or functioning with the help of a machine. It describes processes based on the laws of motion and force.
Eine mechanische Uhr wird durch ein Federwerk angetrieben, nicht durch eine Batterie.
A mechanical watch is powered by a spring mechanism, not by a battery.
mechanical
Done automatically, without thought or feeling. Describes an action that happens routinely and unconsciously, as if performed by a machine.
Er wiederholte die Antwort rein mechanisch, ohne ihren Sinn zu verstehen.
He repeated the answer purely mechanically, without understanding its meaning.
The adjective 'mechanisch' (mechanical) belongs to the noun 'die Mechanik' (mechanics), the study of motion and forces. It therefore describes things that function according to the principles of mechanics.
Die Mechanik ist ein wichtiger Teil des Physikunterrichts.
Mechanics is an important part of physics class.
In its basic meaning, 'mechanisch' (mechanical) always refers to technology, machines, or physical processes. It is often contrasted with 'elektronisch' (electronic) or 'digital' (digital).
Die alte Schreibmaschine funktioniert rein mechanisch, ohne Strom.
The old typewriter works purely mechanically, without electricity.
The figurative meaning describes a human action that happens automatically and without feeling or thought, almost like with a machine.
Er nickte nur mechanisch, während er an etwas anderes dachte.
He only nodded mechanically while thinking about something else.
automatic
When describing a device, both words can refer to a process that takes place without human intervention. „automatisch“ emphasizes that the control happens by itself, while „mechanisch“ indicates that the process is based on mechanics and movement. Use „automatisch“ for the function and „mechanisch“ for the technical nature of the process.
Die Tür öffnet sich mechanisch über Zahnräder und einen Hebel.
The door opens mechanically באמצעות gears and a lever.
Die Tür öffnet sich automatisch, sobald jemand den Sensor berührt.
The door opens automatically as soon as someone touches the sensor.
