dowry / gift
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dowry
Property in the form of money, goods, or land that a bride traditionally brings into a marriage. In many Western cultures, this custom is unusual today, but it still plays a role historically and in other parts of the world.
In dem historischen Roman konnte die Heldin nur durch eine hohe Mitgift einen adligen Mann heiraten.
In the historical novel, the heroine could only marry a nobleman because of a large dowry.
The word is made up of 'mit' (with) and 'Gift'. Here, 'Gift' does not mean 'poison', but is an old German word for 'Gabe' (gift) or 'Geschenk' (present). So a 'Mitgift' (dowry) is literally something 'given along' that a person brings into a marriage.
Die Mitgift der Braut bestand aus Ländereien und Gold.
The bride's dowry consisted of lands and gold.
The literal meaning refers to possessions (money, goods) in the context of a marriage. The figurative meaning refers to innate, positive qualities or talents such as intelligence, beauty, or a special voice.
Früher war eine Heirat ohne Mitgift für eine Frau kaum möglich.
In the past, marriage without a dowry was hardly possible for a woman.
In the historical meaning, 'Mitgift' (dowry) is often combined with verbs such as 'mitbringen' (to bring along), 'erhalten' (to receive), or 'auszahlen' (to pay out). Common adjectives are 'hoch' (high/large) or 'gering' (small/low).
Sie brachte eine beträchtliche Mitgift in die Ehe mit.
She brought a considerable dowry into the marriage.
When 'Mitgift' (gift/talent) describes a talent, it is often emphasized that it is innate. Typical formulations are 'eine natürliche Mitgift' (a natural gift) or 'eine Mitgift von der Natur' (a gift from nature).
Ihre Kreativität war eine Mitgift, die ihr im Beruf sehr half.
Her creativity was a gift that helped her a great deal in her career.
facility / attachment / investment
'die Anlage' and 'die Mitgift' can both mean, in a figurative sense, something that a person naturally brings with them. 'Anlage' is the normal and neutral word when talking about an innate talent or predisposition. 'Mitgift' sounds more figurative and elevated in this meaning: an ability is described as if it had been given to someone. The words can be confused because both can talk about talent or qualities. In everyday language, 'Anlage' is usually more natural. 'Mitgift' fits better in special, figurative expressions. The literal dowry in a marriage is a different meaning.
Seine ruhige Art ist eine besondere Mitgift für die Arbeit mit Kindern.
His calm manner is a special gift for working with children.
Schon als Kind hatte Lena eine starke Anlage zum Zeichnen.
Even as a child, Lena had a strong aptitude for drawing.