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der Leim
glue
An adhesive used to join materials such as wood, paper, or cardboard together.
example
Um den zerbrochenen Stuhl zu reparieren, brauchst du Holzleim.
To repair the broken chair, you need wood glue.
der Leim
glue
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Fixed expression
The idiom 'jemandem auf den Leim gehen' (to be taken in by someone / to fall for someone's trick) is fixed. The person doing the deceiving is in the dative. The structure is always 'Person (Dativ) + auf den Leim gehen'.
EXAMPLE
Ich kann nicht glauben, dass ich ihm auf den Leim gegangen bin.
I can't believe I was taken in by him.
Origin of the expression
The image comes from bird hunting. In the past, branches were coated with 'Leim' (glue) to catch birds. A bird that 'auf den Leim ging' (went onto the glue) was therefore caught and deceived. This image helps you remember the meaning.
EXAMPLE
Die Betrüger waren sehr überzeugend; viele Leute sind ihnen auf den Leim gegangen.
The scammers were very convincing; many people were taken in by them.
Typical collocations
In its literal meaning, 'Leim' (glue) is often connected with the material it is intended for. Common compounds are 'Holzleim' (wood glue) or 'Papierleim' (paper glue).
EXAMPLE
Für Bastelarbeiten mit Papier reicht einfacher Bastelleim.
For paper crafts, simple craft glue is enough.
Compare with
Leim vs Kleber
glue / sticker
'der Kleber' and 'der Leim' both refer to substances used to glue things together. 'Kleber' is the more general word and fits many situations, for example paper, plastic, or small repairs. 'Leim' is often used with wood, paper, or cardboard, and it sounds a bit more craft-related. The words can easily be confused because both firmly join things together. As a simple guide: in everyday life, 'Kleber' is usually a safe choice; for woodworking or craft projects with wood and cardboard, 'Leim' is often more precise.
Leim
Für das kleine Holzregal hat Paul starken Leim benutzt.
Paul used strong glue for the small wooden shelf.
Kleber
In der Schublade liegt Kleber, falls du den Briefumschlag schließen willst.
There is glue in the drawer in case you want to seal the envelope.
In real life
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