rainwater
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rainwater
Water that falls from the sky in the form of rain and does not come from other sources such as rivers, lakes, or groundwater.
Wir sammeln das Regenwasser in einer großen Tonne, um damit die Pflanzen im Garten zu gießen.
We collect the rainwater in a large barrel so we can use it to water the plants in the garden.
The word is composed of 'der Regen' (rain) and 'das Wasser' (water). The 's' in the middle is a linking element that connects the two words. So it literally means 'water that comes from rain'.
Regenwasser ist oft weicher als Leitungswasser.
Rainwater is often softer than tap water.
In everyday life, 'Regenwasser' (rainwater) is often used in certain contexts. Typical verbs are 'sammeln' (to collect), 'nutzen' (to use), or 'verwenden' (to use), especially in the context of gardening.
Viele Gärtner nutzen Regenwasser, um ihre Blumen zu gießen.
Many gardeners use rainwater to water their flowers.
This word is used whenever the source of the water—namely rain—is important. It emphasizes the difference from water from the tap or from a well.
Für empfindliche Zimmerpflanzen ist Regenwasser besser geeignet.
Rainwater is better suited for sensitive houseplants.
groundwater
'das Grundwasser' and 'das Regenwasser' are both water from nature. They can be confused because rainwater can later seep into the ground and become part of the groundwater. But 'Regenwasser' first means the water that comes from the sky as rain, for example onto a roof or into a barrel. 'Grundwasser' is located underground, in soil, rock, or sand, and is often important for drinking water. If you are talking about collecting water after a rain shower, 'Regenwasser' fits. If it is about water underground or wells, 'Grundwasser' fits.
Nach dem Gewitter stand Regenwasser auf dem Balkon.
After the thunderstorm, there was rainwater on the balcony.
In dieser Region ist das Grundwasser sehr wichtig für die Trinkwasserversorgung.
In this region, groundwater is very important for the drinking water supply.