01
das Kabinett
cabinet
In politics, the group of ministers in a government under the leadership of the head of government.
example
Das Kabinett hat heute über den neuen Gesetzentwurf beraten.
The cabinet discussed the new bill today.
das Kabinett
cabinet
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Meanings
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Usage tips
False friend
'Das Kabinett' (the cabinet) in German does not refer to pieces of furniture such as a kitchen cabinet or filing cabinet. Such a piece of furniture is called 'der Schrank' in German. This confusion with the English word 'cabinet' is a common mistake.
EXAMPLE
Die Gläser stehen im Schrank in der Küche.
The glasses are in the cupboard in the kitchen.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about politics, ministers, and laws, it means the government. If it is about wine, bottles, and taste, it means the wine category. If it is about museums, palaces, and art, it means the small room.
EXAMPLE
Die Kanzlerin trifft sich morgen mit dem Kabinett.
The chancellor is meeting with the cabinet tomorrow.
Typical collocations
In a political context, 'Kabinett' (cabinet) is often used with certain verbs. Typical phrases are: 'das Kabinett tagt' (the cabinet is in session), 'das Kabinett berät' (the cabinet deliberates), or 'das Kabinett beschließt etwas' (the cabinet decides something).
EXAMPLE
Das Kabinett hat den neuen Haushalt beschlossen.
The cabinet has approved the new budget.
Cultural context
As a wine designation, 'Kabinett' is an official quality level for German Prädikat wines. It stands for a light, fine wine made from fully ripe grapes and has relatively little alcohol compared with other Prädikat wines.
EXAMPLE
Ich bestelle eine Flasche Riesling Kabinett.
I'll order a bottle of Riesling Kabinett.
Compare with
Kabinett vs Regierung
government
'die Regierung' and 'das Kabinett' can both refer to the political leadership of a country. 'die Regierung' is the more general term for the people who lead a country politically. 'das Kabinett' refers more specifically to the ministers together with the head of government. The words can be confused because the cabinet is an important part of the government. When speaking generally about politics, 'Regierung' is often more natural; when referring to the group of ministers, 'Kabinett' is more precise.
Kabinett
Am Dienstag berät das Kabinett über den neuen Haushalt.
On Tuesday, the cabinet will discuss the new budget.
Regierung
Viele Menschen warten darauf, dass die Regierung eine Lösung findet.
Many people are waiting for the government to find a solution.
In real life
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