das Dreieck
triangle
A geometric figure with three corners and three straight sides.
EXAMPLE
Im Mathematikunterricht haben wir gelernt, die Fläche eines Dreiecks zu berechnen.
In math class, we learned how to calculate the area of a triangle.
das Dreieck
triangle
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Meanings
das Dreieck
triangle
In a figurative sense, a constellation or relationship involving three people, often a romantic relationship.
EXAMPLE
Der Roman beschreibt eine komplizierte Dreiecksbeziehung zwischen den Hauptfiguren.
The novel describes a complicated love triangle between the main characters.
das Dreieck
warning triangle
A triangular warning signal that is set up in road traffic in the event of a breakdown or accident.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Reifenpanne auf der Autobahn musste er sofort das Dreieck aufstellen.
After the flat tire on the highway, he had to set up the warning triangle immediately.
das Dreieck
triangle
A metal percussion instrument in the shape of a triangle, used in an orchestra.
EXAMPLE
Im Orchester ist sie für die Perkussionsinstrumente zuständig und spielt unter anderem das Dreieck.
In the orchestra, she is responsible for the percussion instruments and plays the triangle, among other things.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word 'Dreieck' (triangle) is built very logically. It consists of 'drei' (three) and 'das Eck' (the corner). So it is literally a figure with three corners.
EXAMPLE
Ein Stoppschild hat acht Ecken, ein Vorfahrt-achten-Schild ist ein Dreieck.
A stop sign has eight corners; a yield sign is a triangle.
Typical adjectives
In geometry, a triangle is often described more precisely. Important adjectives are 'rechtwinklig' (right-angled, with a 90-degree angle), 'gleichseitig' (equilateral, all sides are the same length), and 'gleichschenklig' (isosceles, two sides are the same length).
EXAMPLE
Ein rechtwinkliges Dreieck hat eine Hypotenuse.
A right-angled triangle has a hypotenuse.
Context clue: relationship
When 'Dreieck' (triangle) is used in connection with people, love, or relationships, it has the figurative meaning of a three-person constellation. The word 'Dreiecksbeziehung' (love triangle/three-way relationship) is often used.
EXAMPLE
Der Film handelt von einer komplizierten Dreiecksbeziehung.
The film is about a complicated love triangle.
Context clue: traffic
In the context of cars, a breakdown, or an accident on the road, it refers to the warning triangle. It is part of the mandatory equipment in every car.
EXAMPLE
Er stellte das Warndreieck etwa 100 Meter hinter seinem Auto auf.
He set up the warning triangle about 100 meters behind his car.
Context clue: music
When an orchestra, a concert, or musical instruments are being discussed, it refers to the percussion instrument. It produces a high, bright sound.
EXAMPLE
Das Kind durfte im Musikunterricht das Dreieck spielen.
The child was allowed to play the triangle in music class.
In real life
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