das Rückgrat
backbone
The spine in humans and vertebrates, which supports the body.
EXAMPLE
Bei dem Unfall hat er sich eine Verletzung am Rückgrat zugezogen.
He suffered an injury to his backbone in the accident.
das Rückgrat
backbone
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Meanings
das Rückgrat
backbone
In a figurative sense, the moral strength, firmness, and integrity of a person; strength of character.
EXAMPLE
Sie hatte das Rückgrat, ihre Meinung auch gegen Widerstände zu verteidigen.
She had the backbone to defend her opinion even against resistance.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Rücken' (back) and 'Grat' (a sharp ridge, e.g. on a mountain). So it literally describes the central, supporting ridge of the back, which is the spine.
EXAMPLE
Das Rückgrat stützt den gesamten Oberkörper.
The backbone supports the entire upper body.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'Rückgrat' (backbone) is often used with verbs such as 'haben' (to have), 'zeigen' (to show), or 'beweisen' (to prove). The negative form 'kein Rückgrat haben' means that someone is spineless or cowardly.
EXAMPLE
Er hat Rückgrat bewiesen, als er seinen Fehler zugegeben hat.
He showed backbone when he admitted his mistake.
Context clue
You can recognize the literal, medical meaning in the context of the body, health, and injuries. You can recognize the figurative meaning of strength of character in the context of decisions, morality, and social behavior.
EXAMPLE
Der Arzt untersuchte sein Rückgrat auf Verletzungen.
The doctor examined his backbone for injuries.
Compare with
Rückgrat vs Wirbelsäule
spine
Wirbelsäule and Rückgrat can both refer to the body's bony axis. Wirbelsäule is the precise anatomical term, while Rückgrat is suitable in general statements. In a medical report, Wirbelsäule is therefore usually the more appropriate choice.
Rückgrat
Nach dem Sturz tut dem Patienten das Rückgrat weh.
The patient's backbone hurts after the fall.
Wirbelsäule
Die Ärztin untersucht die Wirbelsäule des Patienten auf mögliche Verletzungen.
The doctor examines the patient's spine for possible injuries.
In real life
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