watchword / slogan / droppings
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password
A secret word or short sentence used for identification, for example to get past a guard or gain access to a protected area. Synonymous with 'Parole' (password) or 'Kennwort' (password).
Der Soldat nannte die richtige Losung und durfte das Lager betreten.
The soldier gave the correct password and was allowed to enter the camp.
'Die Losung' is related to the verb 'losen' (to choose by lot) and the noun 'das Los' (fate, drawn lot). This origin explains the idea of an 'assigned' word, whether as a password or as a Bible verse.
Die tägliche Losung wird aus einem Behälter mit Bibelsprüchen gezogen.
The daily watchword is drawn from a container with Bible verses.
The meaning 'Exkremente von Wildtieren' (excrement of wild animals) is technical language used by hunters and foresters. In normal everyday life, this word is never used in this sense.
Der Jäger fand im Wald die Losung eines Hirsches.
The hunter found the droppings of a stag in the forest.
In the meaning 'Kennwort' (password), you will almost always find 'Losung' in a military or security-related context. Typical surrounding words are 'Soldat' (soldier), 'Wache' (guard), 'Lager' (camp), and 'geheim' (secret).
Der Wachposten fragte nach der korrekten Losung.
The sentry asked for the correct password.
When 'Losung' means a motto or slogan, it is usually connected with politics, demonstrations, or social movements. The slogan itself is often placed in quotation marks.
Die Losung der Protestierenden lautete: „Mehr Klimaschutz jetzt!“
The slogan of the protesters was: 'More climate protection now!'
You can recognize the meaning 'Bibelvers' (Bible verse) from the religious context. People often speak of the 'täglichen Losungen' (daily watchwords) or the 'Herrnhuter Losungen' (Moravian Daily Texts), which are read for devotion.
Sie beginnt ihren Tag oft mit dem Lesen der Losung.
She often begins her day by reading the daily watchword.
motto
'das Motto' and 'die Losung' can both mean a short phrase that expresses an idea or goal. 'Motto' is much more neutral and common in everyday language, for example for an event or a personal rule. 'Losung' often sounds more political, militant, or historical when it means the slogan of a group. In addition, 'Losung' can also be a secret password that allows access. This is why the words can be confused: both can seem like a short guiding phrase, but 'Losung' has a stronger sense of a group, movement, or secret password. For ordinary celebrations, projects, or life rules, 'Motto' is usually a better fit.
An der alten Burg durfte nur hinein, wer die Losung kannte.
At the old castle, only those who knew the password were allowed in.
Für die Hochzeit haben sie das Motto „Sommer am Meer“ gewählt.
They chose the motto 'Summer by the Sea' for the wedding.