markantes

Markantes is the neuter singular form of the German adjective markant when it is used with an indefinite article before a neuter noun. The term means striking, distinctive or noteworthy, and it is used to describe features, appearances, or phenomena that stand out in a contrastive or perceptible way.

In German grammar, markant declines like other adjectives. With an indefinite article, neuter singular nominative or accusative is ein markantes Merkmal. When used with a definite article, the form changes to das markante Merkmal. In plural, the adjective typically takes markante, as in markante Merkmale or markante Konturen. The nuance conveyed by markant often centers on conspicuousness or memorability, rather than mere frequency or commonality.

Etymology and usage: markant is borrowed from French marquant, derived from marquer “to mark.” The word entered German in modern descriptive usage and is common in journalism, architecture, art criticism, marketing, and academic writing to denote distinguishing or conspicuous traits.

Examples: Ein markantes Merkmal dieses Gebäudes ist die Glasfassade. Die markanten Konturen der Silhouette geben dem Bild Charakter. Das ist ein markantes Merkmal im Stil des Künstlers.

See also: markant, markante Merkmale, markante Konturen.