spare part
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spare part
A component used to replace a broken or worn-out part in a machine, device, or vehicle.
Die Werkstatt musste ein spezielles Ersatzteil für die Reparatur des Motors bestellen.
The repair shop had to order a special spare part to repair the engine.
The word is made up of 'der Ersatz' (replacement) and 'das Teil' (part). 'Ersatz' means 'replacement'. So an Ersatzteil is literally a 'replacement part'.
Für mein altes Fahrrad ist es schwer, noch Ersatzteile zu finden.
It's hard to find spare parts for my old bicycle anymore.
The word 'Ersatz' (replacement) is closely related to the verb 'ersetzen' (to replace). If a part is broken, you have to replace it, and for that you need an Ersatzteil (spare part).
Der Techniker hat das defekte Bauteil durch ein neues Ersatzteil ersetzt.
The technician replaced the defective component with a new spare part.
Common verbs used in connection with spare parts are: 'ein Ersatzteil bestellen' (to order a spare part), 'kaufen' (to buy), 'einbauen' (to install), 'austauschen' (to replace), or 'brauchen' (to need).
Ich muss online ein Ersatzteil für meine Kaffeemaschine bestellen.
I have to order a spare part for my coffee machine online.
accessories
'Zubehör' and 'Ersatzteil' can both be parts that belong to a device, machine, or vehicle. The important difference is the purpose. 'Zubehör' is additional and expands the use of something or makes it more convenient. It is not necessarily needed for the main product to work. You need an 'Ersatzteil' when a part is broken or worn out and has to be replaced. The words can be confused because both are often bought in shops or workshops. A simple guide is: Zubehör adds to something; an Ersatzteil repairs something.
Für die Waschmaschine mussten wir ein Ersatzteil bestellen, weil die Pumpe kaputt war.
We had to order a spare part for the washing machine because the pump was broken.
Zum Staubsauger gibt es viel Zubehör, zum Beispiel verschiedene Bürsten.
There are many accessories for the vacuum cleaner, for example different brushes.