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An adjective or prefix that describes a connection to the world of computers, the internet, and virtual reality. It is used almost exclusively as part of compound words (e.g., Cyberkriminalität, Cyberspace).
Die Konferenz befasste sich mit den neuesten Cyber-Bedrohungen für Unternehmen.
The conference dealt with the latest cyber threats to businesses.
The word 'cyber' is almost never used on its own in German, but rather as the first part (prefix) of a compound noun. It is written directly together with the second word.
Die Firma schützt sich vor Cyberangriffen.
The company protects itself against cyberattacks.
Since 'cyber' functions as a prefix, it is not declined like a normal adjective. It always keeps the form 'cyber-', regardless of the noun's gender or case.
Der Schutz vor Cyberkriminalität ist eine große Herausforderung.
Protection against cybercrime is a major challenge.
'Cyber' is combined with many words from the fields of technology and security. Typical examples are Cyberangriff (cyberattack), Cybersicherheit (cybersecurity), Cyberkriminalität (cybercrime), and Cybermobbing (cyberbullying).
Viele Jugendliche sind Opfer von Cybermobbing in sozialen Netzwerken.
Many young people are victims of cyberbullying on social networks.
online
'online' and 'cyber' both have to do with the internet, computers, and digital worlds. Use 'online' when someone is connected to the internet or when something takes place on the internet. In German, 'cyber' is used almost only as part of compound words, for example with topics like security or crime on the internet. Learners may confuse the words because both sound technical. But you normally say 'online sein' (to be online), 'online kaufen' (to buy online), or 'ein Online-Kurs' (an online course). 'cyber' is more likely to appear before another word, for example 'Cyberangriff' (cyberattack) or 'Cybersicherheit' (cybersecurity).
In der Schule sprechen wir darüber, wie man sich vor Cyberkriminalität schützt.
At school, we talk about how to protect ourselves from cybercrime.
Am Abend bin ich online und beantworte meine Nachrichten.
In the evening I am online and answer my messages.