01
das Calcium
calcium
A chemical element that is essential as a mineral for building bones and teeth in the human and animal body.
example
Milch und Käse sind reich an Calcium.
Milk and cheese are rich in calcium.
das Calcium
calcium
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Meanings
Usage tips
Alternative spelling
Alongside the official chemical spelling 'Calcium', the spelling 'Kalzium' is also very common and correct in everyday use, especially on food packaging.
EXAMPLE
Auf der Saftpackung steht: „Jetzt mit extra viel Kalzium“.
On the juice carton it says: 'Now with extra calcium.'
Use without an article
As the name of a substance, 'Calcium' (calcium) is often used without an article, especially when referring to an indefinite amount. So you say 'Milch enthält Calcium' (milk contains calcium), not 'Milch enthält das Calcium'.
EXAMPLE
Für gesunde Knochen braucht der Körper ausreichend Calcium.
For healthy bones, the body needs enough calcium.
Typical collocations
Common expressions are 'reich an Calcium sein' (to be rich in calcium), 'ein Mangel an Calcium' (a calcium deficiency), or saying that something is 'wichtig für Knochen und Zähne' (important for bones and teeth).
EXAMPLE
Spinat ist überraschenderweise reich an Calcium.
Spinach is surprisingly rich in calcium.
Compare with
Calcium vs Kalk
limescale / lime
'Kalk' and 'Calcium' are related in meaning, but they are not the same thing. In everyday language, 'Kalk' usually means the white deposits from hard water or a building material. 'Calcium' is a chemical element and an important mineral for bones and teeth. The words can be confused because limescale chemically contains calcium. Even so, you do not say that you remove 'Calcium' from the kettle, but 'Kalk'. Conversely, when talking about nutrition and health, people are more likely to use 'Calcium'.
Calcium
Calcium ist wichtig für starke Knochen und gesunde Zähne.
Calcium is important for strong bones and healthy teeth.
Kalk
Nach dem Kochen bleibt im Wasserkocher oft Kalk zurück.
After boiling water, limescale is often left behind in the kettle.
In real life
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