01
der Computer
computer
An electronic device that can process, store, and output data using programs.
example
Mein Computer ist abgestürzt und ich kann nicht weiterarbeiten.
My computer crashed and I can't continue working.
der Computer
computer
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Meanings
Usage tips
Productive compounds
'Computer' (computer) is a very productive word and forms many compound nouns in German. The word 'Computer-' is simply placed before another noun, e.g. 'Computerspiel' (computer game), 'Computervirus' (computer virus), 'Computerkurs' (computer course), or 'Computertastatur' (computer keyboard).
EXAMPLE
Ich muss einen neuen Computertisch kaufen, meiner ist zu klein.
I need to buy a new computer desk; mine is too small.
Typical verbs
In everyday life, certain verbs are used very frequently with 'Computer' (computer). These include: 'den Computer hochfahren' (to boot/start up the computer), 'herunterfahren' (to shut down), 'neu starten' (to restart), and when it no longer works, people say 'der Computer ist abgestürzt' (the computer has crashed).
EXAMPLE
Du solltest deinen Computer regelmäßig neu starten.
You should restart your computer regularly.
Important prepositions
Pay attention to the prepositions. You work or sit 'am Computer' (at the computer). Data or programs are saved or found 'auf dem Computer' (on the computer).
EXAMPLE
Ich sitze den ganzen Tag am Computer.
I sit at the computer all day.
Compare with
Computer vs Server
server
'der Computer' and 'der Server' can both be electronic devices that process data. 'Computer' is the general word for such a device, for example at home, in the office, or at school. 'Server' is used when a computer in a network gives data or services to other devices. Learners may confuse the words because a server is often also a computer. The important difference is: not every computer is a server. 'Server' only fits when the network function is important.
Computer
Der Computer im Kurs ist heute sehr langsam.
The computer in the course is very slow today.
Server
Der Server speichert die Dateien für alle Mitarbeiter im Büro.
The server stores the files for all employees in the office.
In real life
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