appeal / stimulus / irritation
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appeal
The quality of a thing, person, or situation that makes it attractive, interesting, or desirable.
Der besondere Reiz dieser Stadt liegt in ihrer Mischung aus moderner Architektur und historischen Gassen.
The special appeal of this city lies in its mix of modern architecture and historic alleys.
stimulus
An external or internal influence that triggers a reaction in an organism. Often used in biology and psychology.
Ein plötzliches lautes Geräusch ist ein akustischer Reiz, der eine Schreckreaktion hervorrufen kann.
A sudden loud noise is an acoustic stimulus that can trigger a startle response.
irritation
A mild irritation or unpleasant sensation on the skin or a mucous membrane, for example in the throat or eyes.
Der Zigarettenrauch verursachte einen ständigen Reiz in seinem Hals.
The cigarette smoke caused constant irritation in his throat.
The noun 'der Reiz' is closely related to the verb 'reizen'. The verb can mean 'to attract/tempt', 'to stimulate', or 'to irritate', and thus reflects the different meanings of the noun.
Lass dich nicht von dem Angebot reizen, es ist zu gut, um wahr zu sein.
Don't be tempted by the offer; it's too good to be true.
You can almost always recognize which meaning 'Reiz' has from the context. In texts about art or travel, it is about appeal (m01); in biology, it means a stimulus (m02); and in medicine, it means an irritation (m03).
Der Reiz des Abenteuers war für sie einfach zu groß.
The appeal of the adventure was simply too great for her.
When referring to attractiveness or appeal, 'Reiz' is often used in fixed expressions. Typical ones are 'seinen Reiz haben' (to have its appeal), 'den Reiz ausmachen' (to be what makes something appealing), or 'den Reiz verlieren' (to lose its appeal).
Auch bei schlechtem Wetter hat die Nordsee ihren ganz eigenen Reiz.
Even in bad weather, the North Sea has its very own appeal.
In the meaning 'stimulus', 'der Reiz' is a technical term from the natural sciences and psychology. It is often combined with adjectives such as 'visuell' (visual), 'akustisch' (acoustic), or 'chemisch' (chemical).
Das Experiment untersucht, wie das Nervensystem auf äußere Reize reagiert.
The experiment investigates how the nervous system reacts to external stimuli.
When 'Reiz' describes irritation, a body part or sensory perception is almost always affected. Common combinations are 'Reiz im Hals' (irritation in the throat), 'Reiz in den Augen' (irritation in the eyes), or 'Hustenreiz' (urge to cough).
Das Chlorwasser im Schwimmbad verursachte einen unangenehmen Reiz auf meiner Haut.
The chlorinated water in the swimming pool caused an unpleasant irritation on my skin.
beauty
The beauty of a place is based on its aesthetic quality. Its appeal is a more general term for what makes it attractive or interesting, such as a distinctive atmosphere. Schönheit is appropriate when referring to beautiful appearance; Reiz also works when an unusual or rugged quality makes the place interesting.
Der Reiz des alten Hafens liegt in seiner rauen und lebendigen Atmosphäre.
The appeal of the old harbor lies in its rugged, lively atmosphere.
Die Schönheit des alten Hafens zeigt sich in den harmonischen Häusern am Wasser.
The beauty of the old harbor can be seen in the harmonious houses along the water.
