koppeln
to couple
To physically connect two or more things or attach them to each other.
EXAMPLE
Der Lokführer muss die Waggons an die Lokomotive koppeln.
The train driver has to couple the cars to the locomotive.
koppeln
to couple / connect
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Meanings
koppeln an
to link to
To connect two or more things in terms of content or concept, or make them dependent on each other.
EXAMPLE
Die Gehaltserhöhung ist direkt an die persönliche Leistung gekoppelt.
The salary increase is directly linked to personal performance.
koppeln
to pair / connect
In technology, to connect two devices or systems so that they can exchange data or work together.
EXAMPLE
Ich versuche gerade, mein Smartphone per Bluetooth mit dem Lautsprecher zu koppeln.
I'm trying to pair my smartphone with the speaker via Bluetooth.
Usage tips
Context decides
The exact meaning of 'koppeln' (to couple/connect) becomes clear from the context. If you are talking about trains or machines, it is a physical connection. If it is about ideas or conditions, it is an abstract link. In technology, it usually refers to a data connection.
EXAMPLE
Die Waggons werden im Bahnhof gekoppelt.
The cars are coupled at the station.
Fixed preposition
In the abstract meaning ('abhängig machen von' — to make dependent on), 'koppeln' (to link) is almost always used with the preposition 'an' and the accusative. The structure is: 'etwas an etwas (Akk.) koppeln' (to link something to something).
EXAMPLE
Die Firma koppelt die Bonuszahlung an das Erreichen der Jahresziele.
The company links the bonus payment to the achievement of the annual targets.
Typical collocations
In a technical context, 'koppeln' (to pair/connect) is often used with 'per Bluetooth' (via Bluetooth), 'über WLAN' (via Wi-Fi), or 'mit einem Gerät' (with a device). It can also be used with the preposition 'mit' (with).
EXAMPLE
Koppeln Sie Ihr Smartphone mit dem Lautsprecher, um Musik zu hören.
Pair your smartphone with the speaker to listen to music.
Compare with
koppeln vs verbinden
to connect / to bandage
Both words can refer to technically connecting two devices. verbinden describes generally connecting the devices to each other; koppeln places greater emphasis on enabling them to exchange data or work together as a result. Use koppeln when this functional cooperation is important.
koppeln
Ich kopple den Drucker mit dem Laptop, damit beide Geräte zusammenarbeiten.
I pair the printer with the laptop so that the two devices can work together.
verbinden
Ich verbinde den Drucker mit dem Laptop.
I connect the printer to the laptop.
In real life
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