das Merkmal
Translation
feature, characteristic, trait, attribute
Examples
Ein wichtiges Merkmal dieses Produkts ist die Qualität.
An important feature of this product is its quality.
Blaue Augen sind ein vererbtes Merkmal.
Blue eyes are an inherited trait.
Grammar Patterns
a feature of sth. ein Merkmal von+3 An important feature of this car is its safety.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Eigenschaft (property), Charakteristikum (characteristic), Kennzeichen (hallmark)
Etymology
Composed of 'merken' (to notice, to mark) and 'Mal' (mark, sign). It literally means a 'notice-mark'.
Memory Tips
Connect it to the English word 'mark'. A 'Merkmal' is a 'mark' that defines a feature or characteristic.