01
signalisieren
to signal
To communicate information or an intention through a sign, gesture, or signal.
example
Mit einem Nicken signalisierte sie ihm, dass alles in Ordnung war.
With a nod, she signaled to him that everything was all right.
signalisieren
to signal
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'signalisieren' (to signal) is derived from the noun 'das Signal' (signal). It literally means to give a signal or communicate something through a sign.
EXAMPLE
Der Schiedsrichter signalisierte das Ende des Spiels durch einen Pfiff.
The referee signaled the end of the game with a whistle.
Sentence structure with dative
This verb is often used with a dative object that indicates the person or institution receiving the signal. A common structure is: subject + signalisiert + dative object + accusative object/dass-clause.
EXAMPLE
Er signalisierte mir seine Zustimmung.
He signaled his agreement to me.
Context clues
When a person is the subject, it is usually about a deliberate action (e.g., a gesture). When an event or thing is the subject (e.g., 'die Daten' — the data), the figurative meaning 'to indicate' or 'to be a sign' is meant.
EXAMPLE
Der Fahrer vor mir signalisierte, dass er abbiegen wollte.
The driver in front of me signaled that he wanted to turn.
Compare with
signalisieren vs zeigen
to show
'zeigen' and 'signalisieren' can both mean that something becomes recognizable or gives information. 'zeigen' is more general and more direct: a face, a result, or a behavior shows something. 'signalisieren' is used when something acts like a sign or communicates an intention. This can be a real signal, for example in traffic, or an indirect sign, for example in a conversation. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with making something clear. As a guide: when you simply make something visible or clear, 'zeigen' fits. When a gesture, sign, or behavior sends a message, 'signalisieren' fits better.
signalisieren
Mit einem kurzen Nicken signalisiert der Chef, dass das Gespräch beginnen kann.
With a brief nod, the boss signals that the conversation can begin.
zeigen
Nach dem Unterricht zeigt sie ihrer Mutter die korrigierte Arbeit.
After class, she shows her mother the corrected assignment.
In real life
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