habitat / living space
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habitat
The natural area in which a particular animal or plant species lives and finds the living conditions it needs.
Der tropische Regenwald ist der Lebensraum für unzählige Arten.
The tropical rainforest is the habitat for countless species.
The word is made up of 'Leben' (life) and 'Raum' (space). The 's' in between is a linking element that connects the two parts. Literally, it means 'space to live.'
Moore sind ein wichtiger Lebensraum für seltene Vogelarten.
Moors are an important habitat for rare bird species.
The two most common meanings differ by context. In connection with animals, plants, and nature, it means the biological 'Lebensraum' (habitat). In connection with people, cities, and housing, it refers to social living space.
Der Klimawandel bedroht den Lebensraum der Eisbären.
Climate change threatens the habitat of polar bears.
This meaning is inseparably linked to the ideology of National Socialism. The term is used almost exclusively in historical discussions about this period and has a very strong negative connotation.
Die Forderung nach „Lebensraum im Osten“ war ein zentrales Element der NS-Propaganda.
The demand for 'Lebensraum im Osten' (living space in the East) was a central element of Nazi propaganda.
In a biological context, 'Lebensraum' is often combined with verbs such as 'schützen' (to protect), 'zerstören' (to destroy), 'erhalten' (to preserve), or 'verlieren' (to lose).
Viele Organisationen kämpfen dafür, den natürlichen Lebensraum bedrohter Arten zu erhalten.
Many organizations are fighting to preserve the natural habitat of endangered species.
When referring to space for people, typical combinations are 'Lebensraum schaffen' (to create living space), 'städtischer Lebensraum' (urban living space), or 'bezahlbarer Lebensraum' (affordable living space).
Die Stadtplanung zielt darauf ab, neuen Lebensraum für junge Familien zu schaffen.
Urban planning aims to create new living space for young families.
surroundings / environment
'die Umgebung' and 'der Lebensraum' both have to do with the area in which people, animals, or plants live. 'die Umgebung' refers more to what is around a place or a person: the area, the neighborhood, or the social environment. 'der Lebensraum' is more specific when it comes to life and development. For animals and plants, it means the natural area where they find everything they need. For people, it can also mean the space in which they live and develop. The words can be confused because both describe a place or an environment. 'Umgebung' is more general, while 'Lebensraum' emphasizes living conditions.
Zum Schutz der Vögel muss ihr Lebensraum am See erhalten bleiben.
To protect the birds, their habitat by the lake must be preserved.
Nach dem Umzug wollte er zuerst die Umgebung erkunden.
After moving, he first wanted to explore the surroundings.