das Maschinengewehr
machine gun
A fully automatic firearm designed to fire many rounds in rapid succession.
EXAMPLE
Im Gefecht kam ein schweres Maschinengewehr zum Einsatz.
A heavy machine gun was used in the battle.
das Maschinengewehr
machine gun
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word consists of 'Maschine' (machine) and 'Gewehr' (rifle/gun). The 'n' is a linking element. So it describes a gun that functions automatically like a machine.
EXAMPLE
Die Erfindung des Maschinengewehrs hat die Kriegsführung verändert.
The invention of the machine gun changed warfare.
Typical collocations
A distinction is often made between a 'leichtes Maschinengewehr' (light machine gun), which can be carried by one person, and a 'schweres Maschinengewehr' (heavy machine gun), which requires a fixed position.
EXAMPLE
Die Soldaten trugen leichte Maschinengewehre.
The soldiers carried light machine guns.
Common abbreviation
Especially in historical, military, or journalistic texts, the abbreviation 'MG' is often used.
EXAMPLE
Der Schütze war für das MG verantwortlich.
The gunner was responsible for the MG.
In real life
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