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.
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.
selection / choice
'Auswahl' and 'Stichprobe' both have to do with not taking everything, but only a part. However, 'Auswahl' is a general word: it can mean the things you can choose from, or the act of choosing. 'Stichprobe' is more specific and is used when a small part is checked or examined so that you can learn something about the whole group or amount. They can be confused because a 'Stichprobe' is always a kind of selection. But not every 'Auswahl' is a 'Stichprobe'.
Für die Studie befragt das Team eine Stichprobe von 500 Personen.
For the study, the team surveys a sample of 500 people.
Im Laden gibt es eine große Auswahl an frischem Brot.
The shop has a large selection of fresh bread.