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document
An official or formal document that is written or printed. The term is often used in legal or administrative contexts.
Der Notar überreichte ihm das wichtige Schriftstück zur Unterschrift.
The notary handed him the important document to sign.
'Schriftstück' (document) is made up of 'die Schrift' (writing) and 'das Stück' (piece). So it literally means a 'piece of writing.'
Auf dem Tisch lag ein altes Schriftstück mit unleserlicher Handschrift.
There was an old document with illegible handwriting lying on the table.
This word belongs to formal language, especially administrative and legal language. In everyday speech, you would more likely say 'Dokument' (document), 'Brief' (letter), or 'Text' (text). Use 'Schriftstück' (document) for official papers.
Der Anwalt prüfte das Schriftstück auf mögliche Fehler.
The lawyer checked the document for possible errors.
In official contexts, 'Schriftstück' (document) is often combined with verbs such as 'aufsetzen' (to draft/create), 'unterzeichnen' (to sign), 'überreichen' (to hand over), or 'prüfen' (to check).
Der Vertrag wurde als Schriftstück aufgesetzt und beiden Parteien zugeschickt.
The contract was drafted as a document and sent to both parties.
text
'der Text' and 'das Schriftstück' can both be something written. 'Der Text' is the more general word and mainly refers to the sentences and how they fit together. 'Das Schriftstück' sounds more formal and usually means a document, for example at a government office, in court, or in an official letter. In everyday language, you usually say 'Text' for a message or an article. When it is about an official paper, 'Schriftstück' is more precise.
Im Rathaus wurde das Schriftstück gestern abgestempelt.
The document was stamped at city hall yesterday.
Zum Üben schreibt die Chefin einen kurzen Text für das Team.
For practice, the boss writes a short text for the team.