schema / pattern
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diagram
A simplified plan, graphic representation, or model that shows the basic structure or functioning of something.
Dieses Schema zeigt den Aufbau des menschlichen Herzens.
This diagram shows the structure of the human heart.
pattern
A fixed, often rigid and recurring pattern in thinking or action.
Viele Krimis folgen immer dem gleichen Schema: Mord, Ermittlung, überraschende Auflösung.
Many crime novels always follow the same pattern: murder, investigation, surprising resolution.
by the book
A fixed expression meaning to do something routinely, mechanically, and without individual thought or adjustment.
Die Anträge werden hier nur nach Schema F bearbeitet, ohne auf Einzelfälle einzugehen.
The applications here are processed strictly by the book, without considering individual cases.
The idiom 'nach Schema F' means to do something routinely, impersonally, and strictly according to the rules, without considering the individual case.
In großen Unternehmen werden Bewerbungen oft nach Schema F sortiert.
In large companies, applications are often sorted by the book.
A 'Schema' can be a concrete, visual representation (e.g. a blueprint) or an abstract pattern for actions or thoughts. The context makes it clear whether it refers to a drawing or a way of proceeding.
Der Lehrer zeichnete ein Schema der Fotosynthese an die Tafel.
The teacher drew a diagram of photosynthesis on the board.
The adjective 'schematisch' (schematic) is derived from the noun 'das Schema' (schema/pattern). It means 'shown in simplified form' or 'following a fixed pattern.'
Die Anleitung zeigt nur eine schematische Darstellung des Geräts.
The instructions show only a schematic representation of the device.
When 'Schema' (pattern) describes a pattern of action, it is often combined with verbs such as 'folgen' (to follow), 'anwenden' (to apply), or 'durchbrechen' (to break through). Common phrases are 'nach dem gleichen Schema' (according to the same pattern) or 'in ein Schema passen' (to fit into a pattern).
Der Dieb ging immer nach demselben Schema vor.
The thief always proceeded according to the same pattern.
plan
Plan and Schema can both show a spatial or technical arrangement graphically. Plan usually represents a specific arrangement or intended implementation. Schema is more simplified and mainly shows the basic structure or how something works.
Das Schema zeigt vereinfacht, wie die Leitungen im Gebäude miteinander verbunden sind.
The diagram provides a simplified illustration of how the pipes in the building are connected.
Der Plan zeigt die genaue Lage aller Leitungen im Gebäude.
The plan shows the exact location of all the pipes in the building.
