building block
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building block
In a figurative sense, an essential component or basic element of a larger whole, such as a concept, system, or plan.
Vertrauen ist ein wichtiger Baustein jeder funktionierenden Beziehung.
Trust is an important building block of any functioning relationship.
building block
A single brick or similar prefabricated element used to build walls and buildings.
Für die Gartenmauer benötigen wir noch etwa 200 Bausteine.
We still need about 200 building blocks for the garden wall.
building block
A toy, usually made of wood or plastic, that children can use to build and play.
Das Kind stapelte bunte Bausteine zu einem hohen Turm.
The child stacked colorful building blocks into a tall tower.
The word is made up of 'bauen' (to build) and 'Stein' (stone). A 'Baustein' (building block) is therefore literally a stone for building. This idea is also applied to the figurative meaning and the toy meaning.
Gute Kommunikation ist ein wichtiger Baustein für eine gesunde Beziehung.
Good communication is an important building block for a healthy relationship.
In the figurative meaning, 'Baustein' (building block) is often combined with adjectives such as 'wichtig' (important), 'wesentlich' (essential), or 'zentral' (central). It then describes a core element of abstract things such as a plan, success, or a system.
Disziplin ist ein wesentlicher Baustein für sportlichen Erfolg.
Discipline is an essential building block for athletic success.
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. Words like 'bunt' (colorful) or 'spielen' (to play) point to toys. 'Mauer' (wall) or 'Fundament' (foundation) refer to building material. Abstract nouns like 'Konzept' (concept) or 'Erfolg' (success) signal the figurative meaning.
Meine Nichte baut am liebsten mit bunten Bausteinen.
My niece likes building with colorful building blocks best.
element
Element and Baustein can both refer to an essential part of an abstract whole. Element describes this membership neutrally. Baustein is more figurative and emphasizes that the part works together with other parts in building something; for concepts or plans, it is especially suitable when the part has a constructive function.
Vertrauen ist ein zentraler Baustein für den Aufbau guter Zusammenarbeit.
Trust is a central building block for establishing good cooperation.
Vertrauen ist ein wichtiges Element guter Zusammenarbeit.
Trust is an important element of good cooperation.
