catalyst / catalytic converter
Loading your saved state.
catalyst
In chemistry, a substance that increases the speed of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
Platin wird in vielen industriellen Prozessen als Katalysator eingesetzt.
Platinum is used as a catalyst in many industrial processes.
catalyst
In a figurative sense, a person, thing, or event that triggers or accelerates a development or change.
Die Rede des Aktivisten wirkte als Katalysator für die Protestbewegung.
The activist's speech acted as a catalyst for the protest movement.
catalytic converter
A component in motor vehicles that converts harmful exhaust gases into less harmful substances through a chemical reaction.
Bei der Hauptuntersuchung wurde festgestellt, dass der Katalysator meines Autos defekt ist.
During the general inspection, it was found that my car's catalytic converter is defective.
The word 'Katalysator' (catalyst) belongs to the word family around the verb 'katalysieren' (to catalyze). The ending '-ator' often refers to a person or thing that performs an action. A 'Katalysator' is therefore something that 'catalyzes' a reaction, meaning it accelerates or triggers it.
Diese Krise könnte den politischen Wandel katalysieren.
This crisis could catalyze political change.
You can recognize the meaning from context. In chemistry class or industry, it refers to a substance (m01). In connection with cars and repair shops, it refers to the exhaust system (m03). In discussions about society, politics, or personal development, the figurative meaning as a trigger is meant (m02).
Die Einführung der neuen Technologie war der Katalysator für das schnelle Wachstum der Firma.
The introduction of the new technology was the catalyst for the company's rapid growth.
In the figurative meaning, 'Katalysator' (catalyst) is often used with the preposition 'für' (for) and an accusative object. Typical verbs in this construction are 'als Katalysator wirken' (to act as a catalyst) or 'als Katalysator dienen' (to serve as a catalyst).
Die Erfindung des Internets wirkte als Katalysator für die Globalisierung.
The invention of the internet acted as a catalyst for globalization.
engine / motor
Both der Motor and der Katalysator can drive a development forward. Der Motor emphasizes a driving force that remains effective over a longer period, whereas der Katalysator more often provides an impetus or speeds up a process. Use Motor for sustained drive and Katalysator for the triggering impulse.
Die unerwartete Begegnung war ein Katalysator für die schnelle Entwicklung des Projekts.
The unexpected encounter was a catalyst for the project’s rapid development.
Die engagierte Leiterin ist seit Jahren der Motor des sozialen Projekts.
The committed director has been the driving force behind the social project for years.
