representative
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representative
Characterizing a smaller group or selection in such a way that it reflects the characteristics of a larger whole. Often used in connection with surveys and studies.
Für die repräsentative Umfrage wurden 1000 Menschen aus allen Altersgruppen befragt.
For the representative survey, 1,000 people from all age groups were questioned.
The adjective 'repräsentativ' (representative) belongs to the word family of the verb 'repräsentieren' (to represent someone or something). This helps you understand the meaning of representing or presenting.
Die ausgewählten Teilnehmer sollen die gesamte Bevölkerung repräsentieren.
The selected participants are meant to represent the entire population.
The adjective is very often used with the preposition 'für' (for) and the accusative to indicate which larger group is being represented. The structure is: 'repräsentativ für etwas sein' (to be representative of something).
Diese kleine Stichprobe ist nicht repräsentativ für die Meinung aller Studierenden.
This small sample is not representative of the opinion of all students.
You can recognize the meaning from the context: if it is about data, surveys, or studies, the statistical meaning is intended. If it is about buildings, clothing, or gifts, the meaning 'impressive' or 'attractive' is intended.
Die Ergebnisse der Studie sind repräsentativ.
The results of the study are representative.
In a statistical context, typical combinations are 'eine repräsentative Umfrage' (a representative survey), 'eine repräsentative Studie' (a representative study), or 'eine repräsentative Auswahl' (a representative selection).
Das Meinungsforschungsinstitut führte eine repräsentative Umfrage durch.
The opinion research institute conducted a representative survey.
typical
'typisch' and 'repräsentativ' can both say that something fits well with a larger group. 'typisch' is used in everyday language when something shows the expected features of a person, thing, or group. 'repräsentativ' is more precise when a selection reliably reflects a larger group, for example in a survey or study. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with 'fitting a group'. In practical terms: an individual habit can be 'typisch', but a survey is 'repräsentativ' if it reflects the whole group well.
Die Studie ist nur repräsentativ, wenn genug Menschen aus verschiedenen Altersgruppen teilnehmen.
The study is only representative if enough people from different age groups take part.
Sein ruhiger Humor ist typisch für meinen Bruder.
His quiet humor is typical of my brother.