sample
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sample
A small, representative selection from a larger total group that is examined in order to draw conclusions about the whole. This is a central term in statistics and market research.
Für die Umfrage wurde eine zufällige Stichprobe von 2000 Bürgern befragt.
For the survey, a random sample of 2,000 citizens was questioned.
sample
A small amount of a material that is taken in order to check its quality, composition, or properties.
Der Lebensmittelkontrolleur entnahm eine Stichprobe des Käses zur Analyse im Labor.
The food inspector took a sample of the cheese for analysis in the laboratory.
The word is made up of 'der Stich' (the prick/stab) and 'die Probe' (the sample). The idea behind it is that, as if with a needle, you deliberately 'sticht' (prick/stab) into a large quantity in order to take a small sample for examination.
Die Forscher entnahmen eine Stichprobe aus dem See, um die Wasserqualität zu prüfen.
The researchers took a sample from the lake to check the water quality.
Regardless of the meaning, 'Stichprobe' (sample) is very often used with the verbs 'entnehmen' (to take) or 'ziehen' (to draw). You take or draw a sample from a larger quantity.
Für die Qualitätskontrolle wird jede Stunde eine Stichprobe aus der Produktion entnommen.
For quality control, a sample is taken from production every hour.
The context reveals the exact meaning. If it is about surveys, statistics, or opinion research, it refers to the representative selection. If it is about material, products, or laboratory analyses, it refers to a material sample.
Die Stichprobe für die politische Umfrage war nicht repräsentativ.
The sample for the political survey was not representative.
In a statistical context, 'Stichprobe' (sample) is often combined with the adjectives 'repräsentativ' (representative) or 'zufällig' (random). These emphasize that the selection reflects the overall group well.
Eine repräsentative Stichprobe ist für eine aussagekräftige Studie unerlässlich.
A representative sample is essential for a meaningful study.
sample
Stichprobe and Sample can both refer to a selected part of a larger whole. Stichprobe is the established German term for this, while Sample is used especially in academic, scientific, or technical texts. In a general German text, Stichprobe is usually the better choice; in an appropriate specialist context, Sample is also possible.
Für die Umfrage wurde eine repräsentative Stichprobe von tausend Personen ausgewählt.
A representative sample of one thousand people was selected for the survey.
Für die wissenschaftliche Studie wurde ein Sample von tausend Personen ausgewählt.
A sample of one thousand people was selected for the scientific study.
