das Ries
ream
A unit of measurement for paper, usually consisting of 500 sheets.
EXAMPLE
Für das Projekt benötigen wir ein ganzes Ries Druckerpapier.
For the project, we need a whole ream of printer paper.
das Ries
ream / Ries
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Meanings
das Ries
Ries
A geographical name for a large, circular depression in southern Germany (Nördlinger Ries) that was formed by a meteorite impact.
EXAMPLE
Das Ries ist eine der am besten erhaltenen großen Impaktstrukturen der Erde.
The Ries is one of the best-preserved large impact structures on Earth.
Usage tips
Context clue
The two meanings are very different. The context makes clear what is meant. If the topic is paper, sheets, or printing, the unit of measurement is meant. If the topic is geography, a crater, or southern Germany, the landscape is meant.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe noch ein halbes Ries Papier im Schrank.
I still have half a ream of paper in the cupboard.
Im Urlaub haben wir eine Fahrradtour durch das Ries gemacht.
On vacation, we went on a bike tour through the Ries.
Typical collocations
As a unit of measurement, 'Ries' (ream) is used almost exclusively in connection with 'Papier' (paper). Typical phrases are 'ein Ries Papier kaufen' (to buy a ream of paper) or 'ein Ries Druckerpapier bestellen' (to order a ream of printer paper).
EXAMPLE
Der Büromateriallieferant hat uns zehn Ries Papier geliefert.
The office-supply provider delivered ten reams of paper to us.
Use as a proper noun
In the geographical meaning, 'Ries' is a proper noun. It is almost always used with the definite article 'das' and is often specified with 'Nördlinger': 'das Nördlinger Ries' (the Nördlinger Ries).
EXAMPLE
Das Nördlinger Ries entstand vor etwa 15 Millionen Jahren.
The Nördlinger Ries was formed about 15 million years ago.
In real life
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