der Schwimmer
swimmer
A person who swims, either as a sport or as a leisure activity.
EXAMPLE
Der Schwimmer erreichte als Erster das andere Ufer.
The swimmer was the first to reach the other shore.
der Schwimmer
swimmer
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Meanings
der Schwimmer
float
A component in a technical device that floats on a liquid in order to measure a fill level or control a valve.
EXAMPLE
Der Schwimmer im Spülkasten ist defekt, deshalb läuft das Wasser ständig nach.
The float in the toilet tank is defective, so the water keeps running.
der Schwimmer
bobber / float
A small, light object on a fishing line that floats on the water and indicates a bite. It is also called a float.
EXAMPLE
Als der Schwimmer plötzlich unterging, wusste der Angler, dass ein Fisch angebissen hatte.
When the bobber suddenly went under, the angler knew that a fish had bitten.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'der Schwimmer' (swimmer) is derived directly from the verb 'schwimmen' (to swim). The ending '-er' is often used in German to indicate a male person who performs the corresponding activity.
EXAMPLE
Er lernt gerade schwimmen.
He is just learning to swim.
Context clue
The context tells you which meaning is intended. If you are talking about sports, it refers to a person. In technical contexts such as a toilet tank, it is a component. In fishing, it is the bite indicator on the water.
EXAMPLE
Der Schwimmer im Vergaser meines alten Autos klemmt manchmal.
The float in the carburetor of my old car sometimes gets stuck.
Typical collocations
When referring to a person, 'Schwimmer' (swimmer) is often combined with adjectives that describe ability. Typical expressions are 'ein guter Schwimmer' (a good swimmer), 'ein geübter Schwimmer' (an experienced swimmer), or 'ein schlechter Schwimmer' (a poor swimmer).
EXAMPLE
Auch als guter Schwimmer sollte man die Strömung nicht unterschätzen.
Even as a good swimmer, you shouldn't underestimate the current.
In real life
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