bulwark
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bulwark
In a figurative sense, something that serves as strong protection or as a barrier against an undesirable development or influence.
Die Verfassung gilt als Bollwerk gegen die Diktatur.
The constitution is considered a bulwark against dictatorship.
'Bollwerk' (bulwark) is an elevated-language word. It sounds strong and often somewhat dramatic and is frequently used in journalistic, political, or historical texts.
Die Pressefreiheit ist ein Bollwerk der Demokratie.
Freedom of the press is a bulwark of democracy.
The literal meaning almost always refers to historical fortresses or walls. The figurative meaning, which is more common today, can be recognized by the fact that the 'Bollwerk' (bulwark) is directed against something abstract, such as an ideology, a danger, or a negative development.
Das alte Bollwerk am Hafen kann man heute besichtigen.
You can visit the old bulwark at the harbor today.
In the figurative meaning, 'Bollwerk' (bulwark) is almost always used with the preposition 'gegen' (against) + accusative. It describes what something protects against.
Die Gesetze sollen ein Bollwerk gegen Korruption sein.
The laws are intended to be a bulwark against corruption.
rampart / embankment
'der Wall' and 'das Bollwerk' can both be part of a defensive structure. A 'Wall' is usually a long mound of earth. 'Das Bollwerk' sounds stronger and more massive; it means a very solid protective structure, often as part of a fortress. Learners may confuse the words because both express protection against attacks. 'Wall' describes the shape and material more, while 'Bollwerk' emphasizes the strong protective function. In addition, 'Bollwerk' is also often used figuratively when something provides very strong protection against a danger.
Die Festung galt lange als starkes Bollwerk gegen Angriffe aus dem Norden.
For a long time, the fortress was considered a strong bulwark against attacks from the north.
Der alte Wall ist heute mit Gras bewachsen und kaum noch zu erkennen.
The old rampart is now covered with grass and can hardly be recognized anymore.