component
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component
A single, often prefabricated element that is part of a larger construction, device, or machine. Components are joined together to form a whole.
Für die Reparatur des Motors benötigen wir ein spezielles Bauteil aus dem Ausland.
For the repair of the engine, we need a special component from abroad.
The word is made up of 'Bau' (construction/building, from 'bauen' meaning to build) and 'Teil' (part). So it literally describes a part that is used for building or for a construction.
Dieses kleine Bauteil ist für die Funktion der ganzen Maschine entscheidend.
This small component is crucial for the function of the whole machine.
'Bauteil' (component) is often used with verbs that describe an action involving a component. Typical combinations are 'ein Bauteil einbauen' (to install a component), 'ein Bauteil austauschen' (to replace a component), or 'ein Bauteil bestellen' (to order a component).
Der Techniker musste ein defektes Bauteil in der Steuerung austauschen.
The technician had to replace a defective component in the control unit.
The word 'Bauteil' (component) is mainly used in technical, craft/trade, or industrial contexts. It refers to a single, often standardized element of a machine, device, or building.
In der Fabrik werden die einzelnen Bauteile automatisch montiert.
In the factory, the individual components are assembled automatically.
part
'der Teil' and 'das Bauteil' can both mean a component of a device, a machine, or a construction. 'Teil' is general and fits in many situations. 'Bauteil' is more specific: it means an individual part that is installed in something or joined together with other parts. The words can be confused because a 'Bauteil' is always also a 'Teil'. But 'Bauteil' sounds especially appropriate in technology, construction, repair, and assembly.
Dieses Bauteil muss heute noch in die Maschine eingebaut werden.
This component still has to be installed in the machine today.
Wegen eines kleinen Teils funktioniert die Lampe nicht mehr.
Because of one small part, the lamp no longer works.