der Pakt
pact
A formal treaty or solemn agreement between two or more parties, states, or people.
EXAMPLE
Die beiden Länder schlossen einen Nichtangriffspakt.
The two countries concluded a non-aggression pact.
der Pakt
pact
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Meanings
der Pakt
pact
A secret or ominous agreement, especially in a figurative or literary sense, such as the proverbial pact with the devil.
EXAMPLE
In der Legende schließt Faust einen Pakt mit dem Teufel, um Wissen und Macht zu erlangen.
In the legend, Faust makes a pact with the devil in order to gain knowledge and power.
Usage tips
Typical verbs
The most common verb used with 'Pakt' (pact) is 'schließen' (to conclude/make). You can also 'eingehen' (enter into) a pact or 'brechen' (break) an existing pact.
EXAMPLE
Die beiden Firmen schlossen einen Pakt, um zusammenzuarbeiten.
The two companies made a pact to work together.
Context clue
The context shows what kind of agreement is meant. In political or economic texts, it refers to formal treaties. In stories, myths, or in a figurative sense, it often means an ominous, secret agreement.
EXAMPLE
Die EU-Staaten verhandelten über einen neuen Klimapakt.
The EU states negotiated a new climate pact.
Fixed expression
The best-known use in the figurative meaning is the fixed expression 'einen Pakt mit dem Teufel schließen' (to make a pact with the devil). This describes a morally questionable agreement for personal advantage.
EXAMPLE
Für so viel Erfolg muss er einen Pakt mit dem Teufel geschlossen haben.
For that much success, he must have made a pact with the devil.
Compare with
Pakt vs Vertrag
contract
Both Vertrag and Pakt can refer to a binding agreement. Vertrag is the neutral general term, while Pakt often sounds more solemn or politically charged and emphasizes mutual commitment. In ordinary legal contexts, Vertrag is usually the appropriate choice; for a solemn agreement, Pakt is more suitable.
Pakt
Die beiden Staaten schlossen einen feierlichen Pakt für dauerhaften Frieden.
The two states concluded a solemn pact for lasting peace.
Vertrag
Beide Unternehmen unterschrieben einen Vertrag über die gemeinsame Lieferung.
Both companies signed a contract for joint delivery.
In real life
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