cross-section
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cross-section
The surface that becomes visible when you cut through an object, usually at a right angle to its longitudinal axis.
Der Querschnitt des Baumstammes zeigte deutlich die Jahresringe.
The cross-section of the tree trunk clearly showed the annual rings.
'Querschnitt' (cross-section) consists of 'quer' (across) and 'der Schnitt' (the cut). The literal meaning of a cut across something helps you understand the main meanings.
Für die Analyse benötigen wir einen sauberen Schnitt durch das Material.
For the analysis, we need a clean cut through the material.
In the figurative meaning of a selection, 'Querschnitt' (overview/selection) is almost always used with the preposition 'durch' (+ accusative).
Das Festival bietet einen Querschnitt durch das aktuelle europäische Kino.
The festival offers an overview of current European cinema.
In a medical context, 'Querschnitt' (paraplegia) is a colloquial abbreviation for 'die Querschnittslähmung' (paraplegia). In formal or medical texts, the full term is usually used.
Nach seinem schweren Sturz leidet er an einem Querschnitt.
After his serious fall, he suffers from paraplegia.
selection / choice
'die Auswahl' and 'der Querschnitt' can both mean a smaller set taken from a larger whole. 'die Auswahl' emphasizes that you choose between several options or select something. It does not necessarily have to represent the whole well. 'der Querschnitt' means a selection that is typical or representative and is meant to give an overview. In an exhibition, an 'Auswahl' may simply show a few works; a 'Querschnitt' is meant to show how broad or varied the entire body of work is.
Die Ausstellung zeigt einen Querschnitt durch die moderne Fotografie.
The exhibition presents an overview of modern photography.
Im Laden gibt es eine große Auswahl an frischem Brot.
The shop has a large selection of fresh bread.