bolt
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bolt
A short, thick metal pin that is often used to connect machine parts. As a rule, it does not have a thread like a screw.
Der Mechaniker sicherte das Rad mit einem stabilen Bolzen.
The mechanic secured the wheel with a sturdy bolt.
bolt
A short, arrow-like projectile that is shot from a crossbow.
Der Schütze legte einen Bolzen in die Armbrust ein.
The archer placed a bolt in the crossbow.
to make a blunder
Colloquial for making a serious mistake or doing something foolish.
Mit dieser unüberlegten Aussage hat er einen ziemlichen Bolzen geschossen.
With that thoughtless statement, he made quite a blunder.
To distinguish the meanings, pay attention to the context. If it is about technology, machines, or construction, the metal pin is meant. In a historical context or with weapons such as the crossbow, the projectile is meant.
Für die Reparatur der Maschine fehlt uns noch ein passender Bolzen.
We still need a suitable bolt to repair the machine.
The expression 'einen Bolzen schießen' (to make a blunder) means to make a big mistake or say something foolish. The meaning is purely figurative and has nothing to do with a weapon.
Mit seiner unbedachten Bemerkung hat der Politiker einen echten Bolzen geschossen.
With his careless remark, the politician made a real blunder.
The expression 'einen Bolzen schießen' (to make a blunder) belongs to colloquial language. It is used in informal conversations to comment on a mistake or a clumsy action.
Ich habe den Termin vergessen – da habe ich wohl einen Bolzen geschossen.
I forgot the appointment — I guess I really made a blunder there.
In the technical sense, 'Bolzen' (bolt) is often used with verbs such as 'einsetzen' (to insert), 'befestigen' (to fasten), 'sichern' (to secure), or 'lösen' (to loosen/remove).
Der Monteur musste erst den alten Bolzen lösen, um das Teil auszutauschen.
The technician first had to loosen the old bolt in order to replace the part.
pen / pin / apprentice
Stift and Bolzen can be unthreaded parts used for joining or positioning. A Stift is usually small and cylindrical and can be made of various materials. A Bolzen, by contrast, is a short, thick metal pin that often connects machine parts.
Ein dicker Bolzen verbindet die beiden schweren Maschinenteile.
A thick bolt connects the two heavy machine parts.
Ein kleiner Stift hält die beiden Kunststoffteile in der richtigen Position.
A small pin keeps the two plastic parts in the correct position.
