periodisch
periodic
Repeating at regular time intervals; occurring at equal intervals.
EXAMPLE
Die Wartung der Maschine muss in periodischen Abständen erfolgen.
Maintenance of the machine must be carried out at periodic intervals.
periodisch
periodic
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Meanings
periodisch
periodic
In chemistry and physics, relating to the periodic table of the elements and the recurring properties of the elements.
EXAMPLE
Die Eigenschaften der Halogene zeigen ein klares periodisches Verhalten.
The properties of the halogens show clear periodic behavior.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'periodisch' (periodic) is derived directly from the noun 'die Periode' (period), which describes a span of time or a recurring phase. If you know 'Periode' (period), you can easily work out the meaning 'recurring'.
EXAMPLE
Die Konferenz findet in einer zweijährigen Periode statt, also periodisch alle zwei Jahre.
The conference takes place in a two-year cycle, so periodically every two years.
Typical collocations
In its general meaning, 'periodisch' (periodic) is often combined with nouns that describe a recurring action. The phrase 'in periodischen Abständen' (at periodic intervals) is especially common.
EXAMPLE
Die Software wird in periodischen Abständen automatisch aktualisiert.
The software is automatically updated at periodic intervals.
Context clue
You can recognize the technical meaning from the context. If chemistry, physics, elements, or the 'Periodensystem' (periodic table) is being discussed, 'periodisch' (periodic) refers to the recurring properties of the elements.
EXAMPLE
Im Chemieunterricht analysieren wir das periodische Verhalten der Alkalimetalle.
In chemistry class, we analyze the periodic behavior of the alkali metals.
Compare with
periodisch vs wiederkehrend
recurring
Both words describe events that happen repeatedly. „Wiederkehrend“ only says that something happens again and again, while „periodisch“ emphasizes regular intervals or equal gaps between occurrences. Use „wiederkehrend“ for repetition in general and „periodisch“ when a recognizable time rhythm is important.
periodisch
Die periodischen Kontrollen finden alle drei Monate statt.
The periodic inspections take place every three months.
wiederkehrend
Die wiederkehrenden Probleme traten jedes Jahr zu unterschiedlichen Zeiten auf.
The recurring problems appeared at different times each year.
In real life
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