feature
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feature / characteristic
A typical quality or distinguishing feature by which one can recognize a person, thing, or situation.
Ein wichtiges Merkmal dieses Automodells ist sein geringer Benzinverbrauch.
An important feature of this car model is its low fuel consumption.
The word 'Merkmal' (feature) is a compound derived from the verb 'merken' (to notice, to remember). A 'Merkmal' is therefore literally a sign by which you can recognize something or remember it.
An seinen blauen Augen kann man ihn sofort erkennen.
You can recognize him immediately by his blue eyes.
To say what something is a feature of, German usually uses the preposition 'von' with the dative or the genitive. In more formal texts, the genitive is more common.
Die Fähigkeit zu fliegen ist ein Merkmal von Vögeln.
The ability to fly is a feature of birds.
'Merkmal' (feature) is often combined with certain adjectives to make its meaning more precise. Common combinations are 'ein wesentliches Merkmal' (an essential feature), 'ein besonderes Merkmal' (a special feature), or 'äußere Merkmale' (external characteristics).
Ein wesentliches Merkmal einer Demokratie sind freie Wahlen.
An essential feature of a democracy is free elections.
The word 'Merkmal' (feature) is often used in descriptive, factual, or scientific contexts. It often sounds somewhat more formal than the word 'Eigenschaft' (quality/characteristic).
Die Studie analysiert die demografischen Merkmale der Bevölkerung.
The study analyzes the demographic characteristics of the population.
characteristic / capacity
„Eigenschaft“ and „Merkmal“ can both refer to something typical. An „Eigenschaft“ primarily describes a characteristic quality. A „Merkmal“ is used especially to identify a person or thing or distinguish it from others.
Das eingeprägte Logo ist ein Merkmal, an dem man dieses Material erkennt.
The embossed logo is a feature by which this material can be identified.
Die hohe Elastizität ist eine wichtige Eigenschaft dieses Materials.
The high elasticity is an important characteristic of this material.
