voyeur / tensioner
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voyeur
A strongly derogatory term for a person (usually a man) who secretly watches other people, especially while they are undressing or during intimate acts, in order to become sexually aroused; a voyeur.
Die Nachbarin rief die Polizei, weil sie einen Spanner an ihrem Fenster bemerkt hatte.
The neighbor called the police because she had noticed a voyeur at her window.
Both meanings derive from the verb 'spannen' (to tighten/stretch). In the technical sense, 'spannen' means to tighten something or pull it taut. Colloquially, 'spannen' can also mean to watch curiously or secretly.
Du musst die Gitarrensaiten noch etwas mehr spannen.
You still need to tighten the guitar strings a little more.
The meaning is only clear from context. If people, privacy, or a crime are being discussed, the negative term for a person is meant. In texts about technology, cars, or bicycles, it refers to the mechanical component.
Ein Zeuge hat den Spanner beobachtet und die Polizei gerufen.
A witness observed the voyeur and called the police.
As a term for a person, 'Spanner' (voyeur) is a strongly derogatory insult. It expresses disgust and contempt and is used in colloquial language.
Sie beschimpfte den Mann als widerlichen Spanner.
She insulted the man, calling him a disgusting voyeur.
In the technical meaning, 'Spanner' (tensioner) is often part of compound words that specify the function. Examples are 'der Kettenspanner' (chain tensioner) or 'der Riemenspanner' (belt tensioner).
Der Mechaniker muss den Kettenspanner am Motorrad austauschen.
The mechanic has to replace the chain tensioner on the motorcycle.
stalker
'der Stalker' and 'der Spanner' both refer to people who violate other people's boundaries. The difference is important: a stalker repeatedly follows, harasses, or threatens a person. It is often about constant contact, messages, following someone around, or fear. A 'Spanner' secretly watches other people, especially in private or intimate situations. Learners may confuse the words because both are negative and have to do with unauthorized behavior. 'Stalker' fits when it is about following and harassment; 'Spanner' fits when it is about secretly watching.
Im Haus gegenüber wurde ein Spanner gesehen, der heimlich in Fenster schaute.
A voyeur was seen in the building across the street, secretly looking into windows.
Nach vielen Nachrichten und Anrufen meldete sie den Stalker bei der Polizei.
After many messages and calls, she reported the stalker to the police.