larva / mask
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larva
The developmental stage of many animals, especially insects and amphibians, between the egg and pupation or metamorphosis into the adult animal.
Aus der Raupe, der Larve des Schmetterlings, wird später ein Falter.
The caterpillar, the larva of the butterfly, later becomes a butterfly.
mask
A mask that covers the face or part of it, often in the context of theater, carnival, or traditional customs.
Bei der alemannischen Fastnacht tragen die Teilnehmer furchteinflößende hölzerne Larven.
During the Alemannic Fastnacht carnival, participants wear frightening wooden masks.
The meaning of 'Larve' (larva / mask) depends heavily on the context. In a biological context (insects, animals), it means the developmental stage. In a cultural context (carnival, theater), it means a face mask.
Die Kaulquappe ist die Larve eines Frosches.
The tadpole is the larva of a frog.
In the biological sense, 'Larve' (larva) is often used with verbs of development. Typical phrases are 'eine Larve entwickelt sich zu...' (a larva develops into...) or 'aus der Larve schlüpft...' (from the larva hatches...).
Die Larven der Mücken entwickeln sich im Wasser.
Mosquito larvae develop in water.
The meaning 'Maske' (mask) is especially common in southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, above all in connection with Fastnacht or carnival.
Jede Zunft hat ihre eigenen, kunstvoll geschnitzten Larven.
Each guild has its own elaborately carved masks.
When 'Larve' (mask) means a mask, it is often combined with verbs like 'tragen' (to wear), 'aufsetzen' (to put on), or 'schnitzen' (to carve).
Die Kinder hatten Angst vor den Männern, die unheimliche Larven trugen.
The children were afraid of the men who were wearing eerie masks.
mask
Both words can refer to a covering of the face used in theater or carnival. Maske is the neutral and usual term, while Larve is more specialized and often has traditional or literary overtones. In everyday situations, Maske is usually the better choice; Larve is used in an appropriate cultural or stylistic context.
Im traditionellen Theater trug der Schauspieler eine kunstvoll bemalte Larve.
In the traditional theater production, the actor wore an elaborately painted mask.
Für das Karnevalskostüm kaufte sie eine bunte Maske.
She bought a colorful mask for her carnival costume.
