das Paket
package / parcel
An item wrapped in paper or packed in a box that is sent by mail or courier service.
EXAMPLE
Der Postbote hat heute Morgen ein Paket für dich gebracht.
The mail carrier brought a package for you this morning.
das Paket
package
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Meanings
das Paket
package
A collection of related things, measures, or offers that are considered as one unit.
EXAMPLE
Die Regierung hat ein neues Paket mit wirtschaftlichen Hilfsmaßnahmen beschlossen.
The government approved a new package of economic aid measures.
Usage tips
Regional variant
Especially in Austria, instead of 'das Paket' (package/parcel), the diminutive form 'das Packerl' is often used in everyday language.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss heute noch ein Packerl zur Post bringen.
I still have to take a small package to the post office today.
Typical verbs
In connection with mail shipments, 'Paket' (package/parcel) is often used with the verbs 'schicken' (to send), 'bekommen' (to receive), 'annehmen' (to accept, when it is delivered), or 'aufgeben' (to send/drop off at the post office).
EXAMPLE
Hast du mein Paket schon bei der Post aufgegeben?
Have you already sent my package at the post office?
Figurative meaning
In a figurative sense, 'Paket' (package) refers to a bundle of measures. It is often used in compound words such as 'Maßnahmenpaket' (package of measures), 'Rettungspaket' (rescue package/bailout package), or 'Gesetzespaket' (legislative package).
EXAMPLE
Die EU hat ein großes Rettungspaket für die Wirtschaft geschnürt.
The EU put together a large rescue package for the economy.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the context. Words like 'Regierung' (government), 'Gesetz' (law), 'Wirtschaft' (economy), or 'Finanzen' (finances) indicate that a bundle of measures is meant.
EXAMPLE
Das neue Gesetzespaket wurde im Parlament diskutiert.
The new legislative package was discussed in parliament.
Compare with
Paket vs Sendung
program / shipment
Sendung is the general term for letters, goods, or packages sent together. Paket more specifically refers to an item prepared for shipping, usually wrapped in paper or packed in a box. When the specific type of packaging matters, Paket is the better choice.
Paket
Das Paket mit den Büchern kommt morgen in einem großen Karton an.
The package containing the books will arrive in a large box tomorrow.
Sendung
Die Sendung mit den Unterlagen kommt morgen per Post an.
The shipment containing the documents will arrive by mail tomorrow.
In real life
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