distress at sea
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distress at sea
A life-threatening dangerous situation for a ship, its crew, or passengers at sea that requires immediate assistance.
Wegen eines schweren Sturms geriet das Segelboot in Seenot.
Because of a severe storm, the sailboat got into distress at sea.
The word 'Seenot' (distress at sea) is a compound of 'die See' (the sea) and 'die Not' (danger, emergency). So it literally means 'distress at sea.'
Ein Motorschaden auf offener See kann schnell zu Seenot führen.
Engine failure on the open sea can quickly lead to distress at sea.
The most important phrase is 'in Seenot geraten' (to get into distress at sea), which means to get into this dangerous situation. Other common verbs are 'in Seenot sein' (to be in distress at sea) and 'aus Seenot retten' (to rescue from distress at sea).
Das Schiff ist vor der Küste in Seenot geraten.
The ship got into distress at sea off the coast.
'Seenot' (distress at sea) is an official term used by rescue services, in the news, and in shipping. It describes an acute, life-threatening situation, not just minor problems on the water.
Der Kapitän sendete ein Seenot-Signal aus.
The captain sent out a distress signal.
emergency situation
'Notlage' and 'Seenot' both describe situations in which urgent help is needed. 'Notlage' is general and can apply to many areas of life, such as money, housing, health, or personal problems. 'Seenot' is much more specific: it refers to a ship or people at sea who are in mortal danger. That is why 'Seenot' is only correct when the danger happens at sea. In all other difficult situations, 'Notlage' is the more suitable word.
Das Fischerboot geriet bei Sturm in Seenot und sendete ein Notsignal.
The fishing boat got into distress at sea during the storm and sent an emergency signal.
Nach der Kündigung kam er in eine Notlage und suchte Unterstützung bei der Stadt.
After being dismissed, he fell into an emergency situation and sought support from the city.