Merkung

Merkung is a German noun that denotes a remark, annotation, or indication. It derives from the verb merken, meaning to notice or to mark, and is formed with the suffix -ung to denote an act or result. The plural is Merkungen. In everyday language, Merkung can refer to a remark added to a text or to an editor’s note, highlight, or comment.

Typical uses of Merkung occur in editing, proofreading, and scholarly writing, where a Merkung is a remark or comment inserted to point out issues, suggest changes, or draw attention to a particular point. In more formal or administrative contexts, the term may be used to denote a note that clarifies or flags a matter for readers or decision-makers. While Merkung is understood in German, it is often supplanted by Anmerkung, Bemerkung, or Hinweis in contemporary style guides and general prose.

Compared with related terms, Merkung emphasizes the act or result of marking or noting, whereas Anmerkung and Bemerkung more commonly refer to a remark itself. Hinweis tends to indicate a hint or pointer rather than a formal remark in a document. Overall, Merkung is a somewhat less common but valid term for notes or comments appended to text, positions, or arguments in various formal and informal contexts.