01
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
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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Register: outdated
The meaning 'Person, die rechnet' (person who calculates) is outdated today.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
'der Computer' and 'der Rechner' can both mean the same device: an electronic device that processes data using programs. In this sense, they are often interchangeable. 'Computer' is very clear and general in everyday language. 'Rechner' is also often used for a computer, especially when talking about technology or work. What can be confusing is that 'Rechner' can also mean a device for doing calculations, that is, a calculator. So you should pay attention to the context: with files, programs, and the internet, it usually means a computer; with math problems, 'Rechner' can also mean a calculator.
Rechner
Im Büro ist mein Rechner abgestürzt.
My computer crashed at the office.
Computer
Sie schaltet den Computer ein und öffnet das Schreibprogramm.
She turns on the computer and opens the word-processing program.
In real life
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