German word

Anlehnung

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈanleːnʊŋ/

Meaning

  • feminine nounreference

Example

Solche Anlehnungen an klassische Motive sieht man oft in modernen Filmen.

Such references to classical motifs are often found in modern films.

Illustration for Anlehnung (reference)

More examples

Die Ausstellung zeigt eine Anlehnung an barocke Kunst.

The exhibition shows a reference to Baroque art.

Core concept

A new film stands beside an older model, following its direction while changing some details.

Common phrases

  • eine Anlehnung an

    a reference to

Similar words

Bezug: A point of reference showing how another work or matter is related.
Anspielung: An understated suggestion of another work or matter for readers to recognize.
Inspiration: A starting point for developing fresh ideas or forms from something else.
Anknüpfung: A way of extending a topic or work by taking up an earlier element.

Definition in German

Eine stilistische oder gedankliche Orientierung an einem Vorbild, oft mit leichten Abwandlungen.

Word origin

The noun Anlehnung derives from anlehnen, formed with an- meaning 'against' or 'toward' and lehnen meaning 'to lean', extending physical leaning to orientation toward a model.

Usage tips

  • The fixed phrase 'in Anlehnung an' normally takes the accusative, as in 'in Anlehnung an den Roman'.

Opposites

Related words

  • anlehnenbase ___ onverb
  • anlehnendbased onadjective

Word lists with this word