timpani / kettle drum
die Pauke, die Pauken
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timpani
A large percussion instrument with a usually copper bowl and a stretched membrane. Timpani are played mainly in orchestras.
Die Pauke setzte im letzten Satz besonders eindrucksvoll ein.
The timpani came in particularly impressively in the last movement.
to let loose / show off
To celebrate exuberantly and loudly or to act boastfully and show off.
Nach der bestandenen Prüfung haben wir richtig auf die Pauke gehauen.
After passing the exam, we really let loose.
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Pauken |
| genitive | der Pauke |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Pauke | die Pauken |
| accusative | die Pauke | die Pauken |
| dative | der Pauke | den Pauken |
| genitive | der Pauke | der Pauken |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
In an orchestral context, „Pauke“ (timpani) usually appears together with verbs such as „spielen“ (to play) or „einsetzen“ (to use or bring in). In the fixed expression „auf die Pauke hauen“ (to let loose), it refers to exuberant partying or showing off.
Im Orchester spielt die Pauke eine wichtige Rolle.
In the orchestra, the timpani plays an important role.
Am Wochenende wollen wir mal wieder richtig auf die Pauke hauen.
At the weekend, we want to let loose again.
With the meaning of an instrument, „Pauke“ (timpani) is often used in expressions such as „die Pauke spielen“ (to play the timpani), „die Pauke einsetzen“ (to use the timpani), and „ein Pauken-Solo“ (a timpani solo). The musical context shows that the instrument is meant.
Der Schlagzeuger spielte die Pauke im letzten Teil besonders kraftvoll.
The percussionist played the timpani particularly powerfully in the final section.
„Auf die Pauke hauen“ (to let loose) is a fixed colloquial expression whose words cannot be replaced. Only the verb „hauen“ (to hit) is conjugated: In the simple past, people usually say „haute“, and in the perfect, „hat … gehauen“.
Zu ihrem 50. Geburtstag haute sie noch einmal kräftig auf die Pauke.
She really let loose at her fiftieth birthday.
