signal
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signal
An agreed-upon sign given through light, sound, or a gesture in order to convey information or an instruction.
Der Lokführer wartete auf das grüne Signal zur Abfahrt.
The train driver waited for the green signal to depart.
signal
A sign or indication that suggests a particular development or state.
Die fallenden Aktienkurse waren ein klares Signal für eine drohende Wirtschaftskrise.
The falling stock prices were a clear signal of a looming economic crisis.
signal
In physics and technology, a physical quantity, often an electrical voltage or an electromagnetic wave, that transmits information.
Im Tunnel war das GPS-Signal zu schwach.
In the tunnel, the GPS signal was too weak.
'Signal' belongs to the word family around the Latin word 'signum' (sign). Therefore, it is also related to the German verb 'signieren' (to sign).
Seine Unterschrift war ein Signal der Zustimmung.
His signature was a signal of agreement.
With a concrete sign, typical actions are expressed. Common verbs are 'ein Signal geben' (to give a signal), 'ein Signal empfangen' (to receive a signal), or 'auf ein Signal warten' (to wait for a signal).
Der Schiedsrichter gab das Signal zum Start des Spiels.
The referee gave the signal to start the game.
In the figurative meaning, 'Signal' is often combined with adjectives that describe its effect. Typical phrases are 'ein klares Signal' (a clear signal), 'ein starkes Signal' (a strong signal), or 'ein falsches Signal' (the wrong signal).
Die Regierung möchte mit dem neuen Gesetz ein klares Signal setzen.
With the new law, the government wants to send a clear signal.
In a technical context, people often describe the quality of the signal. Common combinations are 'ein starkes/schwaches Signal' (a strong/weak signal), 'ein stabiles Signal' (a stable signal), or 'das Signal verlieren' (to lose the signal).
Mein Handy hat hier auf dem Land nur ein schwaches Signal.
My phone only has a weak signal here in the countryside.
sign / symbol
Both words are possible for an agreed-upon gesture used to signal the start. Signal emphasizes that the gesture deliberately conveys information or an instruction, while Zeichen can simply refer to the perceptible gesture itself. Use Signal when the message is deliberately transmitted, and Zeichen when referring to the gesture as an indication.
Der Trainer gab den Läufern mit dem erhobenen Arm das Signal zum Start.
The coach gave the runners the signal to start with his raised arm.
Der erhobene Arm des Trainers war das Zeichen zum Start.
The coach's raised arm was the sign to start.
