mythical / legendary
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mythical
Belonging to myth or having the characteristics of a myth; legendary.
Drachen und Einhörner sind mythische Wesen, die in vielen alten Geschichten vorkommen.
Dragons and unicorns are mythical creatures that appear in many old stories.
The adjective 'mythisch' (mythical) is derived directly from the noun 'der Mythos' (myth). It describes something that has the characteristics of a myth or comes from a myth.
Die Geschichte des Unternehmens ist von vielen Mythen umgeben.
The company's history is surrounded by many myths.
In its literal meaning, 'mythisch' (mythical) is often combined with nouns that refer to myths and legends. Common combinations are 'mythische Wesen' (mythical creatures), 'mythische Gestalten' (mythical figures), 'mythische Orte' (mythical places), or 'mythische Erzählungen' (mythical stories).
Die alten Griechen erzählten sich Geschichten über mythische Helden.
The ancient Greeks told each other stories about mythical heroes.
In a figurative sense, 'mythisch' (legendary) is used for present-day people, places, or events that have legendary status. It is often softened by adverbs such as 'fast' (almost) or 'geradezu' (practically, downright).
Die Entstehungsgeschichte der Firma hat einen fast mythischen Charakter.
The company's origin story has an almost legendary character.
historical
'historisch' and 'mythisch' can both talk about ancient times, famous people, or special events. The important contrast is: 'historisch' means something that belongs to real history or is documented. 'mythisch' means something that belongs to a myth or legend, so it is not necessarily historically provable. In a figurative sense, 'mythisch' can also mean that something seems almost legendary. Learners may confuse the words because both often appear in connection with old stories. If it is about facts and history, 'historisch' fits; if it is about myths, legends, or a special aura, 'mythisch' fits.
In der Bibliothek las Lena eine Geschichte über ein mythisches Tier.
In the library, Lena read a story about a mythical animal.
Im Museum sehen wir historische Dokumente aus dem 18. Jahrhundert.
In the museum, we see historical documents from the 18th century.