dynamite
das Dynamit
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dynamite
A powerful explosive that consists mainly of nitroglycerin and is used for blasting in mining, construction, or demolition work.
Für die Sprengung des alten Tunnels wurde eine große Menge Dynamit benötigt.
A large amount of dynamite was needed to blast the old tunnel.
dynamite
In a figurative sense, something that has a very explosive, volatile, or dangerous effect, especially in a social or political context.
Seine Enthüllungen über den Skandal waren politisches Dynamit.
His revelations about the scandal were political dynamite.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Dynamits |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Dynamit | – |
| accusative | das Dynamit | – |
| dative | dem Dynamit | – |
| genitive | des Dynamits | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
You can often recognize the figurative meaning from an adjective that names the context. Phrases like 'politisches Dynamit' (political dynamite) or 'soziales Dynamit' (social dynamite) show that it is not about real explosives.
Das Interview des Politikers war pures Dynamit für die Koalition.
The politician's interview was pure dynamite for the coalition.
In the literal sense, 'Dynamit' (dynamite) is often used with verbs like 'legen' (to place), 'zünden' (to ignite), or in the construction 'mit Dynamit sprengen' (to blast with dynamite).
Die Bauarbeiter mussten den Felsen mit Dynamit sprengen, um den Weg freizumachen.
The construction workers had to blast the rock with dynamite to clear the way.
When 'Dynamit' (dynamite) is used metaphorically, it describes information or an event that has great potential for conflict. Typical verbs in this context are 'sein' (to be) or 'bergen' (to contain/harbor).
Die geheimen Dokumente bergen sozialen Dynamit.
The secret documents contain social dynamite.
bomb
Bombe and Dynamit can both figuratively describe a politically explosive revelation. Bombe emphasizes the sudden shock when the news becomes known. Dynamit focuses more on the danger of the content and the fact that it could trigger serious consequences or conflicts for a long time.
Der geheime Bericht ist politisches Dynamit und könnte die Regierung lange belasten.
The secret report is political dynamite and could cause lasting problems for the government.
Die plötzliche Enthüllung schlug im Parlament wie eine Bombe ein.
The sudden revelation hit Parliament like a bombshell.
