der Säbel
saber
A cutting and thrusting weapon with a curved, usually single-edged blade, historically used especially by cavalry.
EXAMPLE
Der Offizier trug einen prunkvollen Säbel an seiner Seite.
The officer wore an ornate saber at his side.
der Säbel
saber
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Meanings
der Säbel
saber
One of the three weapon disciplines in modern sport fencing, in which touches can be scored with the entire blade on the torso, arms, and head.
EXAMPLE
Im Finale des Turniers trat sie in der Disziplin Säbel an.
In the final of the tournament, she competed in the saber event.
Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning of 'Säbel' (saber) becomes clear from context. If people are talking about history, the military, or pirates, the weapon is meant. In the context of modern sports, the fencing discipline is meant.
EXAMPLE
Der Piratenkapitän schwang seinen rostigen Säbel.
The pirate captain swung his rusty saber.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'mit dem Säbel rasseln' means to make warlike or aggressive threats. It comes from the historical weapon, but today it is used figuratively, often in politics.
EXAMPLE
Die Regierung begann, diplomatisch mit dem Säbel zu rasseln.
The government began to rattle its saber diplomatically.
Sport fencing context
In sports, 'Säbel' (saber) is often mentioned together with the other two disciplines, 'Degen' (épée) and 'Florett' (foil). The verb used in this context is 'fechten' (to fence).
EXAMPLE
Er ficht seit seiner Kindheit mit dem Säbel.
He has been fencing with the saber since childhood.
Compare with
Säbel vs Schwert
sword
Das Schwert is the more general historical cutting and thrusting weapon and can have a straight or curved blade. Der Säbel more specifically refers to a weapon with a curved, usually single-edged blade. When this distinctive shape is meant, Säbel is the better choice.
Säbel
Der Reiter war mit einem gebogenen Säbel bewaffnet.
The rider was armed with a curved saber.
Schwert
Der Krieger war mit einem geraden Schwert bewaffnet.
The warrior was armed with a straight sword.
In real life
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