der Rechner
computer
An electronic device for processing data according to a program; a computer.
EXAMPLE
Mein Rechner ist abgestürzt und ich muss ihn neu starten.
My computer crashed and I have to restart it.
der Rechner
computer / calculator
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Meanings
der Rechner
calculator
An electronic device specifically designed for mathematical calculations; a pocket calculator.
EXAMPLE
Für die Steuererklärung brauche ich einen Rechner.
I need a calculator for the tax return.
der Rechner
calculator
An outdated term for a person who performs complex calculations professionally or because of special skills.
EXAMPLE
Der Astronom Johannes Kepler war ein genialer Rechner seiner Zeit.
The astronomer Johannes Kepler was a brilliant calculator of his time.
Usage tips
Word family
'Der Rechner' is derived directly from the verb 'rechnen' (to calculate). A Rechner is therefore literally something or someone that calculates. This explains the different meanings, from computer to calculator.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte ausrechnen, wie viel das insgesamt kostet?
Can you please calculate how much that costs altogether?
Context clue
The context tells you whether a computer or a calculator is meant. Verbs like 'hochfahren' (to boot up), 'abstürzen' (to crash), or 'installieren' (to install) point to a computer. If it is about simple arithmetic problems, a calculator is usually meant.
EXAMPLE
Mein Rechner fährt heute Morgen nicht hoch, ich glaube, er ist kaputt.
My computer won't boot up this morning; I think it's broken.
Typical verbs
In the sense of 'Computer' (computer), 'Rechner' is often used with verbs like 'hochfahren' (to boot up), 'herunterfahren' (to shut down), 'neu starten' (to restart), or 'abstürzen' (to crash).
EXAMPLE
Der Rechner ist mitten in meiner Arbeit abgestürzt.
The computer crashed in the middle of my work.
Register: outdated
The meaning 'Person, die rechnet' (person who calculates) is outdated today. It is used almost only in historical texts to describe professions or skills from the past.
EXAMPLE
Vor der Erfindung des Computers gab es den Beruf des Rechners.
Before the invention of the computer, there was the profession of the calculator.
Compare with
Rechner vs Computer
computer
„Computer“ and „Rechner“ can both refer to an electronic device for processing data. „Computer“ is the neutral and more common choice in everyday speech, while „Rechner“ can sound more technical and, depending on the context, can also mean a calculator. For a general-purpose work device, „Computer“ is usually clearer.
Rechner
Der neue Rechner im Büro verarbeitet die Daten besonders schnell.
The new computer in the office processes the data particularly quickly.
Computer
Ich speichere die Dateien auf meinem Computer.
I save the files on my computer.
In real life
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