structure
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structure
A building or other large construction created by humans and firmly connected to the ground. The term often emphasizes the architectural or engineering achievement.
Die Pyramiden von Gizeh sind beeindruckende Bauwerke der Antike.
The Pyramids of Giza are impressive structures from antiquity.
'Bauwerk' (structure) is made up of 'Bau' (construction, from the verb 'bauen' — to build) and 'Werk' (a creation, a created object). So it literally means a 'work of building.'
Der Kölner Dom ist ein Meisterwerk der gotischen Baukunst.
Cologne Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
The term 'Bauwerk' (structure) is often used for large constructions of architectural or historical significance. These include not only buildings, but also bridges, towers, or dams.
Die Golden Gate Bridge ist ein weltberühmtes Bauwerk.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a world-famous structure.
Common verbs used with 'Bauwerk' (structure) are 'errichten' (to erect/build), 'erbauen' (to build), and 'besichtigen' (to visit/tour). Typical adjectives are 'historisch' (historic), 'modern' (modern), 'imposant' (imposing), or 'beeindruckend' (impressive).
Es dauerte Jahrzehnte, dieses imposante Bauwerk zu errichten.
It took decades to erect this imposing structure.
building
'das Gebäude' and 'das Bauwerk' both refer to something that people have built and that stands firmly in place. But 'Gebäude' normally means a structure with a roof and walls where people live, work, or store things. 'Bauwerk' is broader: a bridge, a tower, or a large dam can also be a 'Bauwerk'. The word often emphasizes the construction or the technical achievement. The words are easy to confuse because every 'Gebäude' is also a 'Bauwerk'. But not every 'Bauwerk' is a 'Gebäude'.
Die neue Brücke ist ein beeindruckendes Bauwerk aus Stahl und Beton.
The new bridge is an impressive structure made of steel and concrete.
Wegen des starken Regens gingen alle schnell in das Gebäude.
Because of the heavy rain, everyone quickly went into the building.