01
der Löwe
lion
A large, powerful big cat that lives mainly in Africa and is known for the male's mane.
example
Im Zoo brüllte der Löwe so laut, dass alle erschraken.
At the zoo, the lion roared so loudly that everyone was startled.
der Löwe
lion
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Grammar trap: N-declension
'Der Löwe' (the lion) is a weak masculine noun (N-declension). This means it takes the ending '-n' in all cases except the nominative singular. This is a common source of mistakes.
EXAMPLE
Der Dompteur füttert den Löwen.
The animal trainer feeds the lion.
Context clue
The meaning 'zodiac sign' can be recognized by signal words such as 'Sternzeichen' (star sign), 'Tierkreiszeichen' (zodiac sign), 'Horoskop' (horoscope), or when a date of birth is being discussed.
EXAMPLE
Mein Bruder ist Löwe und feiert im August Geburtstag.
My brother is a Leo and celebrates his birthday in August.
Fixed expression
The figurative meaning is very often used in the comparison 'kämpfen wie ein Löwe' (to fight like a lion). This describes a person who fights for something very bravely and with full commitment.
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft hat bis zur letzten Minute wie ein Löwe gekämpft.
The team fought like lions until the last minute.
Compare with
Löwe vs Held
hero
'der Held' and 'der Löwe' can both describe a brave person. 'der Held' is used when someone is admired for a brave or especially good deed. 'der Löwe' is figurative in this meaning and mainly emphasizes courage, strength, and fighting spirit. 'Held' sounds more direct and fits real actions or stories. 'Löwe' sounds more figurative and powerful, for example when someone acts very bravely.
Löwe
Vor dem wichtigen Gespräch kämpfte sie wie ein Löwe für ihr Team.
Before the important conversation, she fought like a lion for her team.
Held
Der Feuerwehrmann wurde nach der Rettung des Kindes als Held gefeiert.
After rescuing the child, the firefighter was celebrated as a hero.
In real life
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