noun
difference, distinction
A2
Unterschied (der, plural Unterschiede) means difference or distinction, referring to contrasts between things or ideas. Commonly used in the phrase 'der Unterschied zwischen A und B' (the difference between). Masculine noun with regular plural Unterschiede; genitive singular is 'des Unterschieds'. Not irregular.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.EXAMPLES
Der Lehrer erklärte den Unterschied, damit die Schüler ihn später im Test erklären konnten, obwohl manche noch unsicher waren.
The teacher explained the difference so that the students could explain it later in the test, although some were still unsure.
Der Unterschied zwischen den beiden Autos ist deutlich.
The difference between the two cars is obvious.
Der Unterschied zwischen Theorie und Praxis kann groß sein.
The distinction between theory and practice can be large.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.DETAILS_LABEL
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.MNEMONICS
Picture two similar objects with a big 'vs.' sign between them — that visual marks the Unterschied.
Sounds a bit like 'under-she'd' — imagine someone under a sheet pointing out a difference.
masculine (der) — remember 'der Unterschied' by picturing a man (der) pointing out the difference.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Commonly used when comparing two or more things. 'Unterschied' is closer to the neutral 'difference'; 'Unterscheidung' can sometimes focus more on the act of distinguishing. Watch for the genitive singular ending '-s' (des Unterschieds).