prägend
Translation
formative, influential, defining, characteristic
Examples
Das war eine prägende Erfahrung für mich.
That was a formative experience for me.
Er ist eine prägende Figur der modernen Kunst.
He is an influential figure in modern art.
Grammar Patterns
((prägend für+4)) formative for (sb./sth.) Childhood is formative for one's entire life.
((a defining moment)) a defining moment That was a defining moment in his career.
Similar Words
einflussreich (influential), bestimmend (defining); Antonyms: unbedeutend (insignificant), nebensächlich (minor)
Etymology
It's the present participle of the verb 'prägen' (to mint, to stamp, to emboss). The idea is that something 'stamps' or leaves a permanent impression on a person or thing.
Memory Tips
Think of a printing press ('prägen') that leaves a permanent mark. A 'prägende Erfahrung' (formative experience) is one that leaves a permanent mark on your character.