symmetrical
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symmetrical
A property of objects or shapes in which two halves are mirror images of each other when divided by an axis or a point.
Das Muster auf den Flügeln des Schmetterlings ist fast perfekt symmetrisch.
The pattern on the butterfly's wings is almost perfectly symmetrical.
The adjective 'symmetrisch' (symmetrical) belongs to the noun 'die Symmetrie' (symmetry). The opposite is formed with the prefix 'a-': 'asymmetrisch' (asymmetrical).
Die beiden Hälften des Bildes sind nicht exakt symmetrisch.
The two halves of the picture are not exactly symmetrical.
In the geometric meaning, the preposition 'zu' is often used to indicate the reference point or axis of symmetry.
Die linke Seite der Figur ist symmetrisch zur rechten Seite.
The left side of the figure is symmetrical to the right side.
You can recognize the geometric meaning from nouns like 'Gebäude' (building), 'Gesicht' (face), or 'Form' (shape). You can recognize the figurative meaning from abstract nouns like 'Beziehung' (relationship), 'Konflikt' (conflict), or 'Kommunikation' (communication).
Ein menschliches Gesicht ist selten perfekt symmetrisch.
A human face is rarely perfectly symmetrical.
In the figurative meaning, 'symmetrisch' (symmetrical) is often used for social interactions. Typical phrases are 'symmetrische Beziehung' (symmetrical relationship), 'symmetrische Kommunikation' (symmetrical communication), or 'symmetrische Verteilung' (symmetrical distribution).
Die beiden Parteien streben eine symmetrische Vereinbarung an.
The two parties are aiming for a symmetrical agreement.
regular
'regelmäßig' and 'symmetrisch' can both describe shapes that seem orderly. Here, 'regelmäßig' means that a shape or pattern is even and has no major deviations. 'symmetrisch' is more precise: two sides are mirror images of each other or match each other exactly. Learners may confuse the words because a symmetrical shape often also looks regular. But not every regular shape is symmetrical. Use 'symmetrisch' when it is really about equal halves or an axis of symmetry.
Nach dem Falten sieht das Papierherz fast symmetrisch aus.
After being folded, the paper heart looks almost symmetrical.
In der Pause zeichnet Frau Krüger ein regelmäßiges Muster auf das Papier.
During the break, Ms. Krüger draws a regular pattern on the paper.