01
die Kohle
coal
A black or brownish-black combustible raw material used as a fossil fuel for generating energy.
example
Das Kraftwerk wird immer noch mit Kohle betrieben.
The power plant is still operated with coal.
die Kohle
coal
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Meaning in context
You can easily tell which meaning is intended from the topic. If it's about energy or heating, the fuel is meant. If it's about paying or earning, money is meant. In the context of grilling, charcoal is meant.
EXAMPLE
Früher wurde in vielen Häusern mit Kohle geheizt.
In the past, many houses were heated with coal.
Colloquial word for money
In the meaning of 'Geld' (money), 'Kohle' is a very common colloquial word. It is often used in informal conversations among friends or family.
EXAMPLE
Für das neue Handy brauche ich noch ein bisschen Kohle.
I still need a bit of cash for the new phone.
Typical expressions (money)
In colloquial use for 'Geld' (money), there are fixed expressions like 'Kohle machen' (to make money), 'flüssige Kohle haben' (to have cash available), or 'auf der Kohle sitzen' (to sit on one's money / not spend one's money).
EXAMPLE
Mit seiner neuen Geschäftsidee will er richtig Kohle machen.
With his new business idea, he wants to make some serious cash.
Compare with
Kohle vs Geld
money
'das Geld' and 'die Kohle' can both mean money in everyday language. The important difference is style. 'Geld' is neutral and works in almost any situation, including at work, at the bank, or in official conversations. 'Kohle' is colloquial and sounds casual. It is used more among friends or in informal situations. In serious or formal texts, 'Kohle' sounds inappropriate. If you want to be safe, use 'Geld'; 'Kohle' fits when the tone is meant to be deliberately casual.
Kohle
Nach dem Konzert hatte Max kaum noch Kohle für den Bus.
After the concert, Max had hardly any cash left for the bus.
Geld
Bitte überweisen Sie das Geld bis Ende der Woche.
Please transfer the money by the end of the week.
In real life
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