German word

markant

Pronunciation

IPA/maʁˈkant/

Meaning

  • adjectivestriking

Example

Sie hat ein markantes Gesicht.

She has a striking face.

Illustration for markant (striking)

More examples

In der Ausstellung fiel ein markanter Kontrast zwischen alt und neu auf.

At the exhibition, a striking contrast between old and new stood out.

Core concept

A bold contour or trait that gives a face, object, or personality its signature.

Common phrases

  • markantes Gesicht

    striking face

  • markanter Kontrast

    striking contrast

  • markantes Merkmal

    striking feature

Similar words

bemerkenswert: Worthy of attention because of an especially memorable quality.
auffällig: Conspicuous and easy for people nearby to notice.
ausgeprägt: Especially pronounced in form, character, or tendency.
deutlich: Plainly recognizable or understandable because of its clarity.

Definition in German

Bemerkenswert auffallend in Aussehen oder Charakter, sodass es im Gedächtnis bleibt.

Word origin

The adjective entered German through French marquant 'striking', formed from marquer 'to mark' and related to the idea of leaving a visible sign.

Usage tips

  • Markant is generally neutral or positive, whereas auffällig can also suggest that something is conspicuous, unusual, or inappropriate.

Other meanings

  • distinctiveadjective
  • noticeableadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Markanzdistinctivenessnoun

Word lists with this word