scale
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scale
A series of markings or values on a measuring device used to read a specific value, for example on a thermometer or a set of scales.
Die Skala auf dem Thermometer reicht von -20 bis 50 Grad Celsius.
The scale on the thermometer ranges from -20 to 50 degrees Celsius.
scale / spectrum
A range or spectrum of different possibilities, opinions, or intensities.
Seine Reaktion reichte von Überraschung bis hin zu offener Wut, er zeigte die ganze Skala der Gefühle.
His reaction ranged from surprise to open anger; he showed the whole spectrum of emotions.
scale
In music, a fixed series of notes that are played upward or downward in a particular order. Another term for this is tone ladder, or musical scale.
Im Klavierunterricht üben wir jeden Tag die C-Dur-Skala.
In piano lessons, we practice the C major scale every day.
A very common and useful phrase is 'auf einer Skala von ... bis ...' (on a scale from ... to ...). It is used to rate something or indicate a range, for example in ratings, temperatures, or other measured values.
Wie zufrieden sind Sie auf einer Skala von eins bis zehn?
How satisfied are you on a scale from one to ten?
The context makes the meaning of 'Skala' (scale) clear. If it is about measuring devices (thermometer, scales), it refers to the measurement display. In connection with abstract terms (feelings, possibilities), it means a spectrum. In a musical context, it refers to scales.
Die Skala der Reaktionen war beeindruckend.
The scale of reactions was impressive.
In the figurative meaning, 'Skala' (scale / spectrum) is often used to describe a great variety. Typical expressions are 'die ganze Skala' (the whole spectrum) or 'eine breite Skala' (a broad range).
Das Buch deckt die ganze Skala menschlicher Emotionen ab.
The book covers the whole spectrum of human emotions.
spectrum
When referring to political positions, “Spektrum” emphasizes the variety of opinions represented. “Skala” presents these positions more as ordered gradations according to a particular criterion, for example from left to right. Use “Spektrum” when the different positions are the focus, and “Skala” when their arrangement is being compared.
Auf der politischen Skala ordnete sie ihre Position zwischen den beiden Extremen ein.
On the political scale, she placed her position between the two extremes.
Das politische Spektrum der Diskussion reicht von sehr progressiven bis zu konservativen Ideen.
The political spectrum represented in the discussion ranges from very progressive to conservative ideas.
