der Anzug
suit
A formal combination of jacket and trousers (and sometimes a vest) made from the same fabric, mainly worn by men.
EXAMPLE
Zur Hochzeit trug er einen eleganten dunklen Anzug.
He wore an elegant dark suit to the wedding.
der Anzug
suit
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Meanings
im Anzug sein
to be approaching
To be approaching; to be imminent. Usually used for weather phenomena or negative events.
EXAMPLE
Laut Wetterbericht ist ein schweres Gewitter im Anzug.
According to the weather forecast, a severe thunderstorm is approaching.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Anzug' (suit) is derived from the verb 'anziehen' (to put on / to get dressed). So literally, it is something you put on. The second part '-zug' comes from 'ziehen' (to pull).
EXAMPLE
Für das Vorstellungsgespräch hat er sich extra einen neuen Anzug gekauft.
He bought himself a new suit especially for the job interview.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Anzug' (suit) in this meaning are 'einen Anzug tragen' (to wear a suit), 'einen Anzug anziehen' (to put on a suit), or 'im Anzug erscheinen' (to appear in a suit).
EXAMPLE
Mein Vater trägt bei der Arbeit immer einen Anzug.
My father always wears a suit at work.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'im Anzug sein' (to be approaching / to be imminent) is a fixed idiom. It is usually used for negative events or weather phenomena that are about to happen soon.
EXAMPLE
Ein starkes Unwetter ist im Anzug.
A severe storm is approaching.
Context clue
The two meanings are easy to distinguish. If people are talking about clothing, the first meaning is intended. The fixed expression 'im Anzug sein' (to be approaching / to be imminent) always refers to an upcoming event.
EXAMPLE
Er bügelt seinen Anzug für die morgige Präsentation.
He is ironing his suit for tomorrow's presentation.
Compare with
Anzug vs Kostüm
costume / suit
Both words can refer to a formal combination of a jacket and a matching lower garment. Anzug mainly means the classic combination of a suit jacket and trousers, worn primarily by men; in a professional context, Kostüm usually refers to the corresponding clothing for women, with a skirt or trousers.
Anzug
Der Mann trug zur Bewerbung einen dunkelblauen Anzug mit passender Hose.
The man wore a dark blue suit with matching trousers to the interview.
Kostüm
Die Frau trug zur Bewerbung ein dunkelblaues Kostüm mit passender Hose.
The woman wore a dark blue women's suit with matching trousers to the interview.
In real life
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