01
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
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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 Wunder
miracle / wonder
'das Wunder' and 'das Phänomen' can both mean something unusual or amazing. 'Wunder' sounds stronger and often more emotional: something seems almost impossible, inexplicable, or especially fortunate. 'Phänomen' is used more when you want to observe, describe, or understand something, for example in nature, science, or society. For people, 'Phänomen' can also mean an exceptionally gifted person. The words can be confused because both express amazement. However, 'Phänomen' sounds more factual, while 'Wunder' sounds more admiring or mysterious.
Phänomen
Im Kurs sprechen wir über das Phänomen, dass manche Menschen im Schlaf reden.
In the course, we talk about the phenomenon of some people talking in their sleep.
Wunder
Für die Familie war die schnelle Heilung des Kindes ein kleines Wunder.
For the family, the child's quick recovery was a small miracle.
In real life
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