01
der Schub
push
A sudden, forceful pushing or pressure movement that moves something forward.
example
Mit einem kräftigen Schub beförderte er die schwere Kiste in den LKW.
With a strong push, he moved the heavy crate into the truck.
der Schub
push / thrust
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family: schieben
'Der Schub' (the push/thrust) is the noun related to the verb 'schieben' (to push). It describes the act of pushing or the force that is created in the process.
EXAMPLE
Er öffnete die Tür mit einem leichten Schub.
He opened the door with a slight push.
Use with 'geben'
When referring to a physical pushing movement, the phrase 'jemandem/etwas einen Schub geben' (to give someone/something a push) is often used.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du dem Auto einen Schub geben? Die Batterie ist leer.
Can you give the car a push? The battery is dead.
Typical collocations
In its figurative meaning, 'Schub' is often combined with phases of development. Common compounds are 'Wachstumsschub' (growth spurt), 'Entwicklungsschub' (developmental spurt), or, with illnesses, 'Fieberschub' (fever episode/flare-up).
EXAMPLE
Mein Neffe ist stark gewachsen, er hatte wohl einen Wachstumsschub.
My nephew has grown a lot; he probably had a growth spurt.
Technical context
In physics and technology, 'Schub' refers to the propulsive force of an engine. You will therefore often find this word in texts about rockets, airplanes, or space travel.
EXAMPLE
Die Triebwerke erzeugen nicht genug Schub für den Start.
The engines do not generate enough thrust for takeoff.
Context: groups
When 'Schub' describes a group of people or things, this often happens in a logistical or administrative context. It implies that the group is treated as one unit.
EXAMPLE
Ein neuer Schub an Warenlieferungen kam heute im Lager an.
A new batch of goods deliveries arrived at the warehouse today.
Compare with
Schub vs Druck
pressure / printing
'der Druck' and 'der Schub' can both describe a force. 'Druck' acts on a surface, for example with air, water, or a heavy object. 'Schub' emphasizes forward movement or a push that drives something. In technology and physics, for example, people talk about the thrust of an engine. The words can be confused because both have to do with force. As a memory aid: 'Druck' acts on something, while 'Schub' moves something forward.
Schub
Beim Start erzeugen die Triebwerke einen starken Schub.
During takeoff, the engines generate strong thrust.
Druck
In der Leitung ist der Druck zu niedrig, deshalb kommt kaum Wasser heraus.
The pressure in the pipe is too low, so hardly any water comes out.
In real life
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