01
der Schlagstock
baton
A short, solid stick, often used by the police as a weapon for defense or for controlling crowds.
example
Der Polizist trug einen Schlagstock an seinem Gürtel.
The police officer carried a baton on his belt.
der Schlagstock
baton
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is very directly understandable from its parts: it is a 'Stock' (stick; a rod made of wood or another material) that is used for 'Schlagen' (hitting).
EXAMPLE
Bei der Demonstration setzte die Polizei Schlagstöcke ein.
At the demonstration, the police used batons.
Typical verbs
In connection with a 'Schlagstock' (baton), the verbs 'einsetzen' (to use/deploy), 'benutzen' (to use), or 'tragen' (to carry) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Sicherheitskräfte dürfen unter bestimmten Umständen Schlagstöcke einsetzen.
Security forces may use batons under certain circumstances.
Context
This word is strongly connected with the context of police, security services, and sometimes also violence or self-defense.
EXAMPLE
Der Verdächtige wurde mit einem Schlagstock bedroht.
The suspect was threatened with a baton.
Compare with
Schlagstock vs Keule
leg / club
'die Keule' and 'der Schlagstock' can both refer to a heavy object that can be used for hitting. However, 'die Keule' is more general and often sounds like a simple, crude weapon or a tool made of wood or metal. 'der Schlagstock' is more specific: it is a short stick, especially the kind police use for defense or control. Learners may confuse the words because both can serve as striking weapons. When police or security forces are involved, 'Schlagstock' is more natural. When it is about an old, crude, or general weapon, 'Keule' fits better.
Schlagstock
Der Polizist trug bei der Demonstration einen Schlagstock am Gürtel.
The police officer carried a baton on his belt during the demonstration.
Keule
Im Museum liegt eine alte Keule aus Holz in einer Glasvitrine.
In the museum, an old wooden club is displayed in a glass case.
In real life
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