01
das Zeichen
sign / symbol
A symbol, figure, or marking that has a specific, established meaning.
example
Das @-Zeichen ist ein fester Bestandteil von E-Mail-Adressen.
The @ symbol is a fixed part of email addresses.
das Zeichen
sign / symbol
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Das Zeichen' belongs to the word family of 'zeichnen' (to draw). A Zeichen (sign/symbol) is often something that you can draw or write in order to convey information.
EXAMPLE
Er zeichnete ein Herz in den Sand.
He drew a heart in the sand.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'Signal' (signal), 'Zeichen' is often used with the verb 'geben' (to give). You can also say 'auf ein Zeichen warten' (to wait for a signal).
EXAMPLE
Gib mir ein Zeichen, wenn du fertig bist.
Give me a signal when you're finished.
Sentence structure with a preposition
When 'Zeichen' describes an indication or symptom, it often appears with the preposition 'für' (for) or with a genitive to explain what it points to.
EXAMPLE
Seine Müdigkeit war ein Zeichen für Überarbeitung.
His tiredness was a sign of overwork.
Context clue
The meaning 'Schriftzeichen' (written character) or 'character' is almost always used in the context of texts, computers, or passwords. Often an exact number is required.
EXAMPLE
Die Nachricht darf nicht mehr als 160 Zeichen haben.
The message may not have more than 160 characters.
Fixed expression
The expression 'ein Zeichen setzen' means to show a clear opinion through an action. You often set a Zeichen 'für' something (e.g., peace) or 'gegen' something (e.g., racism).
EXAMPLE
Die Sportler setzten mit ihrer Geste ein Zeichen gegen Diskriminierung.
With their gesture, the athletes sent a message against discrimination.
Compare with
Zeichen vs Mal
time / mark
'das Mal' and 'das Zeichen' can both mean a visible spot or marking. 'das Mal' is used especially for a physical or visible mark, for example 'ein Muttermal' (a birthmark). 'das Zeichen' is more general: it can be a symbol, a marking, or also an indication of something. Learners may confuse the words because a 'Mal' can look like a 'Zeichen'. The difference is: a 'Zeichen' often means something or points to something, while a 'Mal' is more the visible spot itself.
Zeichen
Yusuf wartet auf ein Zeichen, bevor er die Maschine startet.
Yusuf is waiting for a signal before he starts the machine.
Mal
An ihrem Arm sieht man ein kleines dunkles Mal.
You can see a small dark mark on her arm.
In real life
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