pest
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pest
An animal, plant, or microorganism that is harmful to humans, their livestock, crops, or materials.
Der Borkenkäfer ist ein gefährlicher Schädling für Fichtenwälder.
The bark beetle is a dangerous pest for spruce forests.
pest / vermin
A derogatory term for a person who is viewed as harmful to a community or society.
In der totalitären Propaganda wurden Andersdenkende oft als „Schädlinge“ diffamiert.
In totalitarian propaganda, dissenters were often defamed as 'pests' or 'vermin.'
The word is derived from 'der Schaden' (damage). The ending '-ling' is often used for masculine nouns and here describes a person or animal that causes harm.
Diese Insekten sind ein großer Schädling für die Landwirtschaft.
These insects are a major pest for agriculture.
In a biological context, people often talk about 'Schädlinge bekämpfen' (to control pests) or using 'ein Mittel gegen Schädlinge' (a remedy/product against pests). Combining it with the field is also common, e.g. 'Forstschädlinge' (forest pests) or 'Agrarschädlinge' (agricultural pests).
Gärtner suchen oft nach natürlichen Mitteln gegen Schädlinge.
Gardeners often look for natural remedies against pests.
Calling a person a 'Schädling' (pest/vermin) is extremely derogatory and dehumanizing. This term is mainly used in extremist propaganda and is absolutely taboo in neutral or respectful discussion.
Die Verwendung des Wortes „Schädling“ für Menschen ist ein Merkmal totalitärer Sprache.
Using the word 'Schädling' (pest/vermin) for people is a feature of totalitarian language.
insect
Insekt refers to an animal according to its zoological classification. Schädling, by contrast, refers to something because of its harmful effect on people, plants, animals, or materials, and it does not have to be an insect. Use Insekt for the animal species and Schädling for the problematic effect.
Wegen der Schäden an den Rosen gilt die Blattlaus als Schädling.
Because of the damage it causes to the roses, the aphid is considered a pest.
Die Blattlaus ist ein kleines Insekt mit sechs Beinen.
The aphid is a small insect with six legs.
