rabble / pack
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rabble
A strongly derogatory, colloquial term for a group of people who are considered inferior, antisocial, or criminal.
Die Anwohner beschwerten sich über das laute Pack, das nachts im Park feierte.
The residents complained about the loud rabble that was partying in the park at night.
Although it looks like the English word 'pack', 'das Pack' in German is a very strong, negative term for a group of people. It is an insult and not a neutral description.
Die Polizei vertrieb das randalierende Pack aus dem Stadion.
The police drove the rioting rabble out of the stadium.
This word is a very degrading insult. It is used as a collective singular to dismiss an entire group of people as inferior.
Er bezeichnete die Demonstranten als „faules Pack“.
He referred to the demonstrators as 'faules Pack' (lazy rabble).
The meaning 'Bündel' (bundle) or 'Last' (load) is hardly used today. You find it almost only in historical texts or old stories.
Der Wandergeselle schulterte sein Pack und zog weiter.
The journeyman shouldered his pack and moved on.
package
'das Paket' and 'das Pack' can both mean something wrapped or bundled. In modern standard German, you almost always use 'das Paket' for something sent by mail or courier. 'das Pack' in this meaning sounds outdated or regional and does not fit well for normal mail or online orders. Learners may confuse the words because they look similar. The important point is: for a shipment, say 'Paket'. You should also use 'Pack' carefully, because today it is often a strongly derogatory term for people.
Der alte Händler trug ein schweres Pack mit Stoffen auf dem Rücken.
The old merchant carried a heavy pack of fabrics on his back.
Morgen kommt ein Paket mit den neuen Schuhen an.
A package with the new shoes will arrive tomorrow.