friction
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friction
In physics, the force that opposes the relative motion between two bodies touching each other or between a body and the matter surrounding it.
Durch die Reibung der Bremsbeläge auf der Scheibe wird das Fahrrad langsamer.
The friction of the brake pads on the disc slows the bicycle down.
friction
In a figurative sense, a disagreement, conflict, or tension between people or groups.
Zwischen den Koalitionspartnern kam es bei diesem Thema zu erheblichen Reibungen.
There was considerable friction between the coalition partners on this issue.
rubbing
The process of rubbing or scraping one surface against another.
Die ständige Reibung des Etiketts im Nacken hat meine Haut gereizt.
The constant rubbing of the label on the back of my neck irritated my skin.
The noun 'Reibung' (friction) is derived directly from the verb 'reiben' (to rub). This connection helps you understand all its meanings: physical rubbing, rubbing on the skin, and the metaphorical 'Sich-aneinander-Reiben' (clashing with each other) in conflicts.
Durch das ständige Reiben des Rucksacks ist mein T-Shirt kaputtgegangen.
My T-shirt got damaged from the constant rubbing of the backpack.
You can often recognize the figurative meaning 'Konflikt' (conflict) from the preposition 'zwischen' (between) in connection with people or groups. In this context, it is about social tensions, not physics.
Zwischen den Abteilungen gibt es schon seit Langem Reibungen.
There has been friction between the departments for a long time.
In the sense of 'Konflikt' (conflict), 'Reibung' (friction) is often used in fixed expressions, for example 'es kommt zu Reibungen' (friction occurs), 'Reibungen entstehen' (friction arises), or 'Reibungen beilegen' (to resolve friction).
Die neue Strategie des Managements führte zu erheblichen Reibungen im Team.
The management's new strategy led to considerable friction within the team.
In its physical meaning, 'Reibung' (friction) is a technical term. People speak of 'Reibung zu erzeugen' (creating friction), 'Reibung zu reduzieren' (reducing friction), or of 'Wärme, die durch Reibung entsteht' (heat that is generated by friction).
Ingenieure versuchen, die Reibung in Motoren zu minimieren, um Energie zu sparen.
Engineers try to minimize friction in engines in order to save energy.
resistance
Widerstand is the general term for a force that slows down a movement or acts against it. Reibung refers more specifically to the opposing force created by contact between moving surfaces. Use Reibung for contact between surfaces; otherwise, use the more general term Widerstand.
Beim Bremsen bremst die Reibung zwischen den Reifen und der Straße das Fahrrad.
When braking, friction between the tires and the road slows the bicycle down.
Beim schnellen Fahrradfahren bremst der Luftwiderstand den Fahrer.
When cycling fast, air resistance slows the cyclist down.
