01
der Körperkontakt
physical contact
Physical touching between two or more people.
example
In manchen Kulturen ist enger Körperkontakt zur Begrüßung üblich.
In some cultures, close physical contact when greeting someone is common.
der Körperkontakt
physical contact
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is a clear compound made up of 'der Körper' (the body) and 'der Kontakt' (contact). Its meaning is therefore literal: it describes physical contact between bodies.
EXAMPLE
Beim Tanzen ist Körperkontakt unvermeidlich.
Physical contact is unavoidable when dancing.
Typical verbs
'Körperkontakt' is frequently combined with certain verbs. Typical phrases are: 'Körperkontakt haben' (to have physical contact), 'Körperkontakt suchen' (to seek physical contact), 'Körperkontakt vermeiden' (to avoid physical contact), or 'Körperkontakt herstellen' (to establish physical contact).
EXAMPLE
Manche Menschen vermeiden bewusst Körperkontakt mit Fremden.
Some people deliberately avoid physical contact with strangers.
Register and context
'Körperkontakt' is a fairly neutral and descriptive term. It is often used in contexts such as psychology, sociology, or sports to describe interactions objectively.
EXAMPLE
Im Judo lernen die Kämpfer, auf Körperkontakt zu gehen.
In judo, the fighters learn to engage in physical contact.
Compare with
Körperkontakt vs Kontakt
contact
'der Kontakt' and 'der Körperkontakt' can both mean physical touch. However, 'Körperkontakt' is more precise: it is always about touch between people or bodies. 'Kontakt' is much broader and can also occur between things, groups, or in technical contexts. That is why 'Kontakt' can be less clear in many sentences. Learners may confuse the words when talking about closeness between people. If physical closeness is really meant, for example in sports, care work, or during a hug, 'Körperkontakt' is more precise.
Körperkontakt
Beim Tanzen ist Körperkontakt oft ganz normal.
When dancing, physical contact is often completely normal.
Kontakt
Beim Putzen sollte kein Kontakt zwischen Wasser und Steckdose entstehen.
When cleaning, there should be no contact between water and the power outlet.
In real life
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