attraction
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attraction / force
A physical force that causes two or more bodies to attract each other, such as gravity or magnetism.
Die Anziehungskraft der Erde sorgt dafür, dass alles zu Boden fällt.
The Earth’s gravitational attraction makes everything fall to the ground.
The word is made up of “Anziehung” and “Kraft.” “Anziehung” comes from the verb “anziehen” (to attract), and “Kraft” means “force.” Literally, then, it is an “Anziehungskraft” (attractive force).
Die magnetische Anziehungskraft zieht die beiden Metallteile zusammen.
The magnetic attraction pulls the two metal parts together.
In the physical sense, “Anziehungskraft” (attraction/force) is often connected with celestial bodies or physical phenomena. Typical terms are “Gravitation” (gravity), “Magnetismus” (magnetism), “Erde” (Earth), or “Mond” (moon).
Die Anziehungskraft des Mondes verursacht die Gezeiten.
The moon’s gravitational attraction causes the tides.
When a person or thing exerts an attraction on someone or something, the preposition “auf” is used with the accusative. Typical verbs are “haben” (to have), “ausüben” (to exert), or “ausstrahlen” (to radiate).
Diese Musik übt eine seltsame Anziehungskraft auf mich aus.
This music exerts a strange attraction on me.
In the figurative sense, “Anziehungskraft” (appeal/attraction) is often combined with adjectives like “magisch” (magical), “besonders” (special), “stark” (strong), or “unwiderstehlich” (irresistible) to describe the fascinating effect.
Paris hat eine unwiderstehliche Anziehungskraft für Verliebte.
Paris has an irresistible appeal for lovers.
suction / pull
'der Sog' and 'die Anziehungskraft' can both mean a force or effect that draws something or someone in. In physics, 'Anziehungskraft' is the more general term, for example with magnets or gravity. 'Sog', on the other hand, refers to a pulling current in air or water that carries something along with it. Figuratively, both can also describe a strong effect on people. In that case, 'Sog' often sounds as if you can hardly resist it, while 'Anziehungskraft' is more neutral and simply describes that something seems attractive. Learners may confuse the words because both are connected with 'ziehen' (to pull). Pay attention: current and being carried along = 'Sog'; general or physical attraction = 'Anziehungskraft'.
Die Anziehungskraft des Magneten war stark genug, um die kleinen Schrauben festzuhalten.
The magnet’s attraction was strong enough to hold the small screws in place.
Beim Schwimmen kam Tom zu nah an den Wasserfall und spürte den starken Sog.
While swimming, Tom got too close to the waterfall and felt the strong suction.