chimney sweep
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chimney sweep
A person whose job is to clean soot from chimneys and fireplaces and to inspect heating systems.
Einmal im Jahr kommt der Schornsteinfeger zur Kontrolle der Abgasanlage.
Once a year, the chimney sweep comes to inspect the exhaust system.
The word is composed of 'Schornstein' (chimney) and 'fegen' (to sweep; to clean vigorously and quickly). So a 'Schornsteinfeger' (chimney sweep) is literally a person who sweeps chimneys.
Der Schornsteinfeger reinigt den Kamin, damit kein Feuer ausbricht.
The chimney sweep cleans the fireplace so that no fire breaks out.
In Germany and some other European countries, the chimney sweep is considered a good-luck charm. In the past, his work prevented fires, which meant great good fortune.
Viele Leute freuen sich, wenn sie einen Schornsteinfeger sehen, weil er Glück bringen soll.
Many people are happy when they see a chimney sweep because he is said to bring good luck.
In connection with the profession, typical verbs are 'kommen' (to come), 'kontrollieren' (to inspect/check), and 'reinigen' (to clean). People often say: 'Der Schornsteinfeger kommt heute.' (The chimney sweep is coming today.)
Der Schornsteinfeger muss die Heizungsanlage kontrollieren.
The chimney sweep has to inspect the heating system.
lucky charm
'der Glücksbringer' and 'der Schornsteinfeger' can both be connected with luck. 'Glücksbringer' is the general term for something or someone that people believe brings good luck. This can be a horseshoe, a small stone, or even a person. 'Schornsteinfeger' is actually a profession: this person cleans chimneys and checks heating systems. At the same time, in folk belief, the chimney sweep is considered a symbol of good luck. Learners may confuse the words if they think only of this luck-related meaning. Strictly speaking, a chimney sweep is a lucky charm only in this symbolic role.
Der Schornsteinfeger kommt morgen und prüft die Heizung im Keller.
The chimney sweep is coming tomorrow and will check the heating system in the basement.
Vor der Prüfung steckt Lena ihren kleinen Glücksbringer in die Jackentasche.
Before the exam, Lena puts her little lucky charm in her jacket pocket.