01
transparent
Physically see-through, so that you can see through it.
example
Durch das transparente Glas der Vase kann man die Stiele der Blumen sehen.
Through the transparent glass of the vase, you can see the stems of the flowers.
transparent
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word comes from Latin. The prefix 'trans-' means 'through', and the second part derives from 'parere' (to appear, to show oneself). So 'transparent' literally means 'shining through'.
EXAMPLE
Die transparente Schicht schützt das Display des Telefons.
The transparent layer protects the phone's display.
Context clue
The context makes the meaning clear. If it is about materials like glass or film, 'transparent' means physically see-through. If it is about information, politics, or finances, the figurative meaning 'nachvollziehbar' (traceable/understandable) or 'offen' (open) is meant.
EXAMPLE
Die Verpackung ist transparent, damit man das Produkt sieht.
The packaging is transparent so that you can see the product.
Typical collocations
In its literal meaning, 'transparent' is often combined with materials that you can see through. Typical examples are 'transparentes Glas' (transparent glass), 'transparente Folie' (transparent film), or 'transparenter Kunststoff' (transparent plastic).
EXAMPLE
Legen Sie eine transparente Folie über die Schüssel.
Place a transparent film over the bowl.
Typical collocations
In the figurative sense, 'transparent' is frequently used with abstract nouns from politics and business. Common combinations are 'transparente Prozesse' (transparent processes), 'transparente Kommunikation' (transparent communication), and 'transparente Kosten' (transparent costs).
EXAMPLE
Die Wähler fordern eine transparente Regierung.
The voters are demanding a transparent government.
Compare with
transparent vs klar
clear
'klar' and 'transparent' can both mean that you can see through something. In this physical sense, 'klar' sounds very natural with water, glass, or air, while 'transparent' sounds a bit more precise or factual. Both words can also mean figuratively that something is easy to follow or understand. In that case, 'transparent' is used especially often for decisions, rules, or processes where nothing is meant to remain hidden. Learners may confuse the words because both can mean 'understandable' or 'see-through'. 'klar' is more general and more useful in everyday language; 'transparent' is more appropriate when the focus is on openness and traceability.
transparent
Für die Familie macht Anna die Kosten der Reise transparent.
Anna makes the travel costs transparent for the family.
klar
Im Kurs ist die Regel für die Prüfung jetzt klar.
In the course, the rule for the exam is now clear.
In real life
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