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.
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.
argument / dispute
'Streit' and 'Reibung' can both describe problems between people or groups. 'Streit' is usually a clear conflict where people openly disagree or argue loudly. 'Reibung' is often weaker and more indirect: there are tensions, small conflicts, or repeated problems, but not always an open argument. 'Reibung' fits especially when people work or live together over a longer period and unpleasant situations keep coming up.
Seit dem neuen Plan gibt es im Team immer wieder Reibung.
Since the new plan, there has been repeated friction within the team.
Der Streit zwischen den Nachbarn wurde so laut, dass andere aus dem Haus kamen.
The argument between the neighbors became so loud that others came out of the building.