A hand tool with a handle and a blade, used to tighten or loosen screws. The term is often used colloquially as a synonym for “Schraubendreher” (screwdriver).
example
Gibst du mir bitte den flachen Schraubenzieher aus dem Werkzeugkasten?
Could you please give me the flathead screwdriver from the toolbox?
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of “Schraube” (screw) and “ziehen” (to pull). So it describes a tool used to move screws, even though you actually turn them.
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche einen Schraubenzieher, um das neue Regal aufzubauen.
I need a screwdriver to put up the new shelf.
Typical collocations
The type of screwdriver is often described more precisely. Common combinations are “Kreuzschlitz-Schraubenzieher” (Phillips screwdriver) and “Schlitz-Schraubenzieher” (flathead screwdriver).
EXAMPLE
Für diese Schraube brauchst du einen sehr kleinen Kreuzschlitz-Schraubenzieher.
For this screw, you need a very small Phillips screwdriver.
Sentence structure and usage
The typical verbs used in connection with a screwdriver are “eine Schraube festziehen” (to tighten a screw) or “eine Schraube lösen” (to loosen a screw).
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mit dem Schraubenzieher bitte diese lockere Schraube festziehen?
Can you please tighten this loose screw with the screwdriver?