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die Delle
dent
A small inward-curving indentation on a smooth surface, usually caused by an impact or pressure.
example
Nach dem Hagelschauer hatte das Autodach viele kleine Dellen.
After the hailstorm, the car roof had many small dents.
die Delle
dent
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Typical preposition
The word 'Delle' (dent) is very often used with the preposition 'in'. You have 'eine Delle in' (a dent in) something (dative), or you make 'eine Delle in' (a dent in) something (accusative).
EXAMPLE
Ich habe leider eine Delle im neuen Kühlschrank.
Unfortunately, I have a dent in the new refrigerator.
Typical collocations
In connection with physical dents, the verbs 'haben' (to have), 'bekommen' (to get), and 'machen' (to make) are very common. When a dent is repaired, the verb 'ausbeulen' (to remove dents / to panel-beat) is used.
EXAMPLE
Die Werkstatt kann diese kleine Delle im Kotflügel leicht ausbeulen.
The repair shop can easily remove this small dent in the fender.
Figurative meaning
The figurative meaning of 'Delle' (dent / dip) always refers to a temporary slump or decline. It is often found in the context of business, sports, or personal performance.
EXAMPLE
Nach einem starken Jahresbeginn hat die Konjunktur nun eine Delle.
After a strong start to the year, the economy now has a dip.
Compare with
Delle vs Eindruck
impression
'der Eindruck' and 'die Delle' can both mean a spot caused by pressure. In this meaning, 'Eindruck' is a mark or indentation in a surface. 'Delle' especially means a small inward-pressed spot, often on metal, a car, or a smooth surface. The words can be confused because both have to do with pressure. In everyday language, 'Delle' is much more natural for damaged surfaces. 'Eindruck' sounds more general and somewhat more technical or descriptive here.
Delle
Nach dem Umzug ist eine kleine Delle in der Kühlschranktür.
After the move, there is a small dent in the refrigerator door.
Eindruck
Im weichen Ton blieb der Eindruck seines Daumens deutlich sichtbar.
The impression of his thumb remained clearly visible in the soft clay.
In real life
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