momentum
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momentum
In a figurative sense, the self-sustaining dynamic or drive that a process or development has. It describes the driving force that maintains or strengthens a movement.
Die politische Kampagne hat in den letzten Wochen deutlich an Momentum gewonnen.
The political campaign has clearly gained momentum in recent weeks.
'Momentum' is a word from Latin. It is used mainly in written language, in specialized fields (physics, business), and in more formal discussions.
Die Diskussion verlor schnell an Momentum und wurde beendet.
The discussion quickly lost momentum and was ended.
In the figurative meaning, 'Momentum' (momentum) is very often combined with the verbs 'gewinnen' (to gain), 'verlieren' (to lose), 'nutzen' (to use), or 'aufbauen' (to build). The expression 'an Momentum gewinnen' (to gain momentum) is especially common.
Die Protestbewegung hat in den sozialen Medien stark an Momentum gewonnen.
The protest movement has gained strong momentum on social media.
You can recognize the physics meaning from the context. If there is talk of 'Masse' (mass), 'Geschwindigkeit' (velocity), 'Impuls' (momentum/impulse), or 'Stoß' (collision), the physical 'Momentum' (momentum) is meant.
In der Physik ist das Momentum eine Erhaltungsgröße.
In physics, momentum is a conserved quantity.
When 'Momentum' (right moment) means the favorable moment, it often appears together with adjectives like 'richtig' (right) or 'passend' (suitable). Typical verbs here are 'abwarten' (to wait for), 'finden' (to find), or 'verpassen' (to miss).
Wir müssen das richtige Momentum für die Veröffentlichung des Produkts abwarten.
We need to wait for the right moment for the product launch.
moment
'der Moment' and 'das Momentum' can both have to do with the right point in time. 'der Moment' is the normal word for a specific point in time or instant. 'das Momentum' sounds more specialized and is often used when you mean the favorable moment or the momentum of a development. Learners may confuse the words because they look similar. In everyday language, 'Moment' is almost always more natural. 'Momentum' fits better in conversations about politics, sports, projects, or developments.
Nach dem ersten Erfolg wollte das Team das Momentum nutzen.
After the first success, the team wanted to use the momentum.
Jetzt ist der richtige Moment, um die Frage zu stellen.
Now is the right moment to ask the question.