gag / restraint
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gag
An object, usually a piece of cloth or a ball, that is put into someone's mouth to prevent them from speaking or screaming.
Die Geisel wurde gefesselt und mit einem Knebel zum Schweigen gebracht.
The hostage was tied up and silenced with a gag.
restraint
In a figurative sense, something that severely restricts or suppresses free expression; a constraint.
Die neuen Mediengesetze wurden von Kritikern als Knebel für die Pressefreiheit bezeichnet.
The new media laws were described by critics as a restraint on press freedom.
toggle / handle
A short, thick stick or bar that serves as a handle for tightening something, for example on a rope or a screw clamp.
Mit dem Knebel zog er die Seilwinde fest.
He tightened the rope winch with the toggle.
You can recognize the meaning of 'Knebel' (gag / restraint) from the context. If it is about crime, it means the mouth gag. In a political or legal context, it is about restriction. In craft or technical situations, it is a tool.
Die Entführer benutzten einen Knebel aus Stoff.
The kidnappers used a gag made of cloth.
The verb 'knebeln' (to gag) is derived directly from the first meaning of the noun 'der Knebel' (the gag). It means to put a gag in someone's mouth to prevent them from speaking.
Der Täter hatte sein Opfer gefesselt und geknebelt.
The perpetrator had tied up and gagged his victim.
In the figurative meaning, 'Knebel' (restraint) is often used in fixed expressions or as part of compounds. Very common are 'Knebel für die Pressefreiheit' (restraint on press freedom) or 'der Knebelvertrag' (exploitative contract), which puts one party at a strong disadvantage.
Verbraucherschützer warnen vor Knebelverträgen bei Krediten.
Consumer protection advocates warn against exploitative loan contracts.
The meaning as a tool or handle is mainly relevant today in technical or craft-related fields, for example in seafaring or with certain tools. In general usage, this meaning is rare.
Der Monteur nutzte einen Knebel, um die Schraubzwinge festzuziehen.
The mechanic used a toggle to tighten the screw clamp.
handle / grip
On a device used for tightening something, Griff can be the general part used for holding and operating it. A Knebel, on the other hand, is a short bar that moves crosswise and is specifically designed for this action. Use the general term Griff when the special bar shape is not important.
Mit dem Knebel an der Zwinge zog der Handwerker das Seil fest.
Using the toggle on the clamp, the craftsman tightened the rope.
Der Griff an der Zwinge lässt sich leicht drehen.
The handle on the clamp turns easily.
