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.
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
'der Griff' and 'der Knebel' can both be something you use with your hand. 'der Griff' is the general word for a part that you grasp, hold, or operate. 'der Knebel' here is a short, thick stick or bar used to tighten something, for example a rope or a screw clamp. The risk of confusion comes from the fact that a 'Knebel' can serve as a handle. Still, not every 'Griff' is a 'Knebel'. 'Knebel' only fits when this special shape and tightening function are meant.
Mit dem Knebel zog der Kunde das Seil am Paket fester.
The customer used the toggle to tighten the rope around the package.
Bitte halte den Griff der Schublade fest, wenn du sie herausziehst.
Please hold the drawer handle firmly when you pull it out.