dynamo
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dynamo
A device that generates electric current through mechanical movement, especially the small generator for the light on a bicycle.
Mein Dynamo am Fahrrad ist kaputt, deshalb funktioniert das Licht nicht.
My bicycle dynamo is broken, so the light doesn't work.
The word 'Dynamo' comes from the Greek word 'dýnamis', which means 'strength' or 'power'. This basic idea of generating power connects all meanings: the electricity generator, the powerful sports club, and the energetic person.
Die Wasserkraft des Flusses wird zur Stromerzeugung genutzt.
The water power of the river is used to generate electricity.
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Dynamo' from context. If it is about a 'Fahrrad' (bicycle) and 'Licht' (light), the generator is meant. In connection with 'Sport' (sports), 'Fußball' (soccer), or the name of a city, it is the club. If the word describes a person, it has the figurative meaning.
Wenn dein Fahrradlicht nicht geht, ist vielleicht der Dynamo kaputt.
If your bicycle light isn't working, maybe the dynamo is broken.
In the technical sense, 'Dynamo' is often associated with a bicycle. Typical sentences contain words like 'Fahrrad' (bicycle), 'Licht' (light), 'Kabel' (cable), or verbs like 'antreiben' (to drive) and 'erzeugen' (to generate).
Bei Regen funktioniert mein alter Dynamo oft nicht richtig.
In the rain, my old dynamo often doesn't work properly.
When a person is called a 'Dynamo' (dynamo), it is a big compliment. It means that this person is very energetic and motivates others with their energy and drive.
Seit sie im Team ist, ist die ganze Abteilung viel motivierter – sie ist ein echter Dynamo.
Since she joined the team, the whole department has been much more motivated—she is a real dynamo.
engine / motor
'der Motor' and 'der Dynamo' both have to do with energy and movement. Technically, the difference is clear: an engine turns energy into motion and powers a vehicle or device. A dynamo turns motion into electric current, for example for the light on a bicycle. Figuratively, both can describe an active person. 'Motor' then means the driving force in a project or team. 'Dynamo' emphasizes more that someone is very energetic. Learners may confuse the words because both get things going, but technically they work in opposite directions.
Am Fahrrad funktioniert der Dynamo nicht, deshalb bleibt das Licht aus.
The dynamo on the bicycle isn't working, so the light stays off.
Nach der langen Fahrt war der Motor des Autos sehr heiß.
After the long drive, the car's engine was very hot.