das Gelenk
joint
A movable connection between two or more bones in the body that makes movement possible.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Sport tut mir oft das Kniegelenk weh.
After sports, my knee joint often hurts.
das Gelenk
joint
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Meanings
das Gelenk
joint
In technology, a movable connection between two parts of a machine or structure, similar to a hinge.
EXAMPLE
Das Gelenk des Roboterarms muss regelmäßig geschmiert werden.
The joint of the robotic arm has to be lubricated regularly.
Usage tips
Typical collocations
In a medical context, 'Gelenk' (joint) is often used with verbs such as 'schmerzen' (to hurt), 'sich entzünden' (to become inflamed), 'knacken' (to crack), or 'bewegen' (to move).
EXAMPLE
Wenn ich lange sitze, schmerzt mein Kniegelenk.
When I sit for a long time, my knee joint hurts.
Common compounds
'Gelenk' (joint) is often the second part of compound words that refer to a specific joint in the body, e.g. 'Kniegelenk' (knee joint), 'Hüftgelenk' (hip joint), 'Schultergelenk' (shoulder joint), or 'Handgelenk' (wrist).
EXAMPLE
Er hat sich beim Sport das Handgelenk verletzt.
He injured his wrist while playing sports.
Context clue
The technical meaning can be recognized from words from the field of technology and mechanical engineering, such as 'Roboterarm' (robotic arm), 'Maschine' (machine), 'Konstruktion' (structure), or 'schmieren' (to lubricate).
EXAMPLE
Das Gelenk an der Tür quietscht und braucht etwas Öl.
The joint on the door squeaks and needs some oil.
Compare with
Gelenk vs Angel
fishing rod / hinge
Both words can refer to a movable connection between parts. Angel is more specific and refers especially to the hinge of a door or gate with a fixed axis of rotation; Gelenk is the broader technical term. Use Angel for doors and gates, and Gelenk for machine connections.
Gelenk
Das Gelenk der Maschine verbindet die beiden Teile und ermöglicht ihre Bewegung.
The joint connects the two parts of the machine and allows them to move.
Angel
Die alte Tür hängt nur noch an einer Angel und lässt sich schwer bewegen.
The old door is hanging on only one hinge and is difficult to move.
In real life
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