myth
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myth
A traditional story, saga, or legend that often deals with gods or heroes and tries to explain the world or certain phenomena.
Der griechische Mythos von Prometheus erzählt, wie die Menschen das Feuer bekamen.
The Greek myth of Prometheus tells how humans got fire.
You can recognize the meaning of 'Mythos' (myth) from the context. If it is about gods and heroes, it means an ancient story. If a statement is described as false, it is about a misconception. If a person or brand is idealized, it refers to their legendary status.
Der Mythos von Atlantis fasziniert die Menschen seit Jahrhunderten.
The myth of Atlantis has fascinated people for centuries.
When referring to a traditional story, the preposition 'von' (of/about) with the dative is often used to name the content or main figure.
Kennst du den griechischen Mythos von Sisyphos?
Do you know the Greek myth of Sisyphus?
To describe a misconception, the structure 'der Mythos, dass ...' (the myth that ...) with a subordinate clause is used very frequently.
Der Mythos, dass man nach dem Schwimmen eine Stunde nicht essen darf, ist weit verbreitet.
The myth that you are not allowed to eat for an hour after swimming is widespread.
In connection with misconceptions, there are fixed phrases such as 'einen Mythos widerlegen' (to debunk a myth) or 'mit einem Mythos aufräumen' (to dispel a myth).
Die Studie widerlegt den Mythos, dass Videospiele aggressiv machen.
The study debunks the myth that video games make people aggressive.
When a person or thing becomes legendary, the phrase 'zum Mythos werden' (to become a legend) is often used.
Diese Schauspielerin wurde schon zu Lebzeiten zum Mythos.
This actress became a legend during her lifetime.
fact
'die Tatsache' and 'der Mythos' can both appear in discussions about truth. The important difference is: a fact is something that is really true or can be proven. A myth, in this sense, is a widespread idea that is false. Learners may confuse the words because both are often used in topics such as history, health, or everyday life. If you want to say that something is verifiably true, 'Tatsache' fits. If you want to say that many people believe something even though it is not true, 'Mythos' fits.
Der Mythos, dass Kaffee dem Körper Wasser entzieht, hält sich immer noch.
The myth that coffee dehydrates the body still persists.
Die Polizei prüft die Tatsache, dass der Fahrer zu schnell gefahren ist.
The police are checking the fact that the driver was speeding.