01
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
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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 Rücken
back
'der Rücken' and 'das Rückgrat' can both have to do with the rear part of the body. 'der Rücken' means the whole visible area at the back of the body. 'das Rückgrat' more specifically means the backbone or spine, the supporting part inside the back. In everyday language, 'Rücken' is much more natural when talking about sitting, carrying things, or pain. 'Rückgrat' fits better when you mean the bone structure; it also has a figurative meaning for strength of character. The words can be confused because the backbone is in the back.
Rückgrat
Beim Training achtet die Lehrerin darauf, dass das Rückgrat gerade bleibt.
During training, the teacher makes sure that the backbone stays straight.
Rücken
Er legt sich kurz hin, weil sein Rücken müde ist.
He lies down for a moment because his back is tired.
In real life
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