castle / lock
Loading your saved state.
castle
A large, impressive building that formerly served as a residence for nobles or rulers.
Im Urlaub haben wir das Schloss Versailles in Frankreich besichtigt.
On vacation, we visited the Palace of Versailles in France.
The noun 'das Schloss' (the castle/lock) is closely related to the verb 'schließen' (to close/lock). A 'Schloss' is therefore either a device you can use to close or lock something, or a large, enclosed building.
Bitte schließe die Tür ab, das Schloss ist neu.
Please lock the door; the lock is new.
The context tells you whether a building or a mechanism is meant. Words like 'König' (king), 'besichtigen' (to visit/tour), or 'Garten' (garden) point to the building. Words like 'Schlüssel' (key), 'Tür' (door), or 'Fahrrad' (bicycle) refer to the locking mechanism.
Wir haben das alte Schloss mit seinen prächtigen Gärten besichtigt.
We visited the old castle with its magnificent gardens.
In the meaning of 'Schließmechanismus' (locking mechanism), 'Schloss' (lock) is often combined with the word 'Schlüssel' (key). Fixed expressions are 'Schlüssel und Schloss' (key and lock) or 'der Schlüssel passt ins Schloss' (the key fits in the lock).
Der Schlüsseldienst musste das Schloss austauschen.
The locksmith had to replace the lock.
castle
'das Schloss' and 'die Burg' can both be large old buildings where nobles or rulers used to live. The most important difference is the purpose of the building. A 'Burg' is above all fortified and was meant to protect or defend, often on a mountain or hill. A 'Schloss' is more of an impressive residence and is meant to look beautiful or elegant. Learners can easily confuse the words because both can be historical and large. As a guide: walls, towers, and defense fit better with 'Burg'; parks, splendor, and living quarters fit better with 'Schloss'.
Im Sommer besuchen wir ein Schloss mit einem großen Garten.
In summer, we visit a castle with a large garden.
Am Wochenende wandert die Klasse zu einer alten Burg auf dem Hügel.
At the weekend, the class hikes to an old castle on the hill.