mode of action
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mode of action
The way in which something works or produces its effect; the operating principle or mechanism of action.
Können Sie mir die Wirkungsweise dieses neuen Medikaments erklären?
Can you explain the mode of action of this new medication to me?
The word consists of 'Wirkung' (effect) and 'Weise' (way). So it describes the 'Art und Weise' (manner/way) in which a 'Wirkung' (effect) is achieved or how something works.
Die genaue Wirkungsweise des Geräts ist sehr komplex.
The exact mode of action of the device is very complex.
People often speak of the mode of action of 'eines Medikaments' (a medication), 'einer Maschine' (a machine), 'eines Gesetzes' (a law), or 'eines Systems' (a system). Typical verbs are 'die Wirkungsweise erklären' (to explain the mode of action), 'verstehen' (to understand), or 'analysieren' (to analyze).
Der Arzt erklärte dem Patienten die Wirkungsweise des neuen Medikaments.
The doctor explained the mode of action of the new medication to the patient.
'Wirkungsweise' (mode of action) is a rather formal word that is often used in technical, scientific, or official texts. It describes the operating principle of something.
In der Bedienungsanleitung wird die Wirkungsweise des Motors detailliert beschrieben.
The operating manual describes the mode of action of the engine in detail.
mode of operation
Funktionsweise and Wirkungsweise both explain how something works. Funktionsweise describes more the process or internal operation, while Wirkungsweise focuses more on how an effect is produced. Funktionsweise is suitable for the structure and process, while Wirkungsweise is often used for the resulting effect.
Die Ärztin erklärt uns die Wirkungsweise des neuen Medikaments.
The doctor explains how the new medication works.
Die Technikerin erklärt uns die Funktionsweise des neuen Druckers.
The technician explains how the new printer works.
