der Abstrich
Translation
smear, swab, cut, compromise
Examples
Der Arzt macht einen Abstrich.
The doctor takes a swab.
Wir müssen bei der Qualität Abstriche machen.
We have to make compromises on quality.
Grammar Patterns
to take a swab/smear einen Abstrich machen. Der Arzt macht einen Abstrich.
to make compromises/cuts ((in sth.)) Abstriche ((bei et3)) machen. We have to make cuts in the budget.
Similar Words
Probe (sample); Kompromiss (compromise), Einschränkung (restriction)
Etymology
From the verb 'abstreichen' (to wipe off, to strike off). Medically, it's a sample 'wiped off'. Figuratively, it's something 'struck off' a list (a cut/reduction).
Memory Tips
Picture a doctor 'wiping off' (abstreichen) a sample, and an accountant 'striking off' (abstreichen) items from a budget. Both are an 'Abstrich'.