01
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
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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
'verbinden' and 'koppeln' can both mean that two things are brought together. 'verbinden' is general and fits many kinds of connections, for example physical, technical, or mental ones. 'koppeln' is more specific: it often means that two parts are firmly attached to each other, or that two devices are connected so that they work together. With ideas, too, 'koppeln' can mean that something is made dependent on something else. Learners may confuse the words because both fit in technical contexts. 'verbinden' is the normal, broad word; 'koppeln' sounds more precise when two systems work directly together or are firmly attached to each other.
koppeln
Zum Musikhören hat Max sein Handy mit dem Lautsprecher gekoppelt.
Max paired his phone with the speaker to listen to music.
verbinden
Wir verbinden das Mikrofon mit dem Computer.
We connect the microphone to the computer.
In real life
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