01
der Laptop
laptop
A portable computer that is small and light enough to use on your lap.
example
Für die Zugfahrt nehme ich meinen Laptop mit, um arbeiten zu können.
I'm taking my laptop with me for the train ride so I can work.
der Laptop
laptop
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Laptop' is an English loanword. It is made up of 'lap' (der Schoß) and 'top' (oben drauf). Literally, it is therefore a computer that you can use on your lap.
EXAMPLE
Ich arbeite am liebsten mit dem Laptop auf dem Sofa.
I prefer working with my laptop on the sofa.
Typical verbs
Common verbs in connection with a laptop are 'aufklappen' (to open up) and 'zuklappen' (to close), as well as 'hochfahren' (to start up) and 'herunterfahren' (to shut down).
EXAMPLE
Bitte klapp deinen Laptop zu, wir machen jetzt eine Pause.
Please close your laptop; we're taking a break now.
Correct preposition
When describing that someone is working with the device, the preposition 'an' with the dative is often used. So you say 'am Laptop arbeiten' (to work on the laptop) or 'am Laptop sitzen' (to sit at the laptop).
EXAMPLE
Er saß den ganzen Nachmittag an seinem Laptop.
He sat at his laptop all afternoon.
Compare with
Laptop vs Computer
computer
'der Computer' and 'der Laptop' both refer to devices that you use to run programs and process data. 'Computer' is the more general word. It can be a large computer on a desk, but also a portable device. 'Laptop' is more specific: it is portable and has a screen and keyboard in one device. The words can be confused because a laptop is also a computer. When portability is important, 'Laptop' sounds more natural. When the exact type of device does not matter, 'Computer' is enough.
Laptop
Für die Reise nimmt Maria ihren Laptop mit.
Maria is taking her laptop with her for the trip.
Computer
Der Computer im Arbeitszimmer bleibt meistens auf dem Schreibtisch.
The computer in the study usually stays on the desk.
In real life
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