das Phänomen
phenomenon
An observable occurrence or event, especially when it is unusual or scientifically interesting.
EXAMPLE
Polarlichter sind ein beeindruckendes Natur-Phänomen.
The northern lights are an impressive natural phenomenon.
das Phänomen
phenomenon
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Meanings
das Phänomen
prodigy / phenomenon
An exceptionally gifted or impressive person; a prodigy.
EXAMPLE
Mit nur zwölf Jahren war der junge Schachspieler bereits ein weltweites Phänomen.
At just twelve years old, the young chess player was already a worldwide phenomenon.
Usage tips
Scientific context
The word 'Phänomen' (phenomenon) is very often used in scientific, academic, or journalistic texts. Typical verbs in this context are 'ein Phänomen beobachten' (to observe a phenomenon), 'untersuchen' (to investigate), or 'erklären' (to explain).
EXAMPLE
Wissenschaftler versuchen, dieses seltene Phänomen zu erklären.
Scientists are trying to explain this rare phenomenon.
Typical compounds
'Phänomen' (phenomenon) is often the base word in compounds that describe the type of occurrence more precisely. Common examples are 'Naturphänomen' (natural phenomenon), 'Alltagsphänomen' (everyday phenomenon), or 'Massenphänomen' (mass phenomenon).
EXAMPLE
Ein Regenbogen ist ein wunderschönes Naturphänomen.
A rainbow is a beautiful natural phenomenon.
Context clue
When 'Phänomen' (phenomenon) refers to a person, it always means an exceptional, often young and very talented person. The context makes it clear that it is not about an event, but about a person.
EXAMPLE
Dieser junge Musiker gilt als Phänomen am Klavier.
This young musician is considered a phenomenon at the piano.
Compare with
Phänomen vs Erscheinung
appearance / phenomenon
Das Phänomen and die Erscheinung can both refer to an observable event. Phänomen often emphasizes that something is unusual or scientifically interesting and should be investigated. Erscheinung is more likely to name the visible or detectable event itself. Phänomen therefore often fits an investigation, while Erscheinung fits a neutral observation.
Phänomen
Die Forschenden untersuchen das ungewöhnliche Phänomen, bei dem sich das Wasser plötzlich verfärbt.
The researchers are investigating the unusual phenomenon in which the water suddenly changes color.
Erscheinung
Die Verfärbung des Wassers ist eine beobachtbare Erscheinung in diesem See.
The discoloration of the water is an observable phenomenon in this lake.
In real life
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