01
der Spielball
play ball
A ball that is used for playing or for a specific sport.
example
Die Kinder warfen sich den bunten Spielball im Park zu.
The children tossed the colorful play ball to each other in the park.
der Spielball
play ball / pawn
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Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Compound word
'Spielball' is a compound noun made from 'das Spiel' (game/play) and 'der Ball' (ball). Literally, it is simply a ball that you play with.
EXAMPLE
Der Hund hat den Spielball im Garten gefunden.
The dog found the play ball in the garden.
Context clue
The literal meaning (m01) refers to a real ball. The figurative meaning (m02) is used for people, groups, or countries that are controlled by others and have no power of their own.
EXAMPLE
Der Tennisspieler schlug den Spielball präzise über das Netz.
The tennis player hit the play ball precisely over the net.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'Spielball' (pawn) is often combined with the verb 'werden' (to become) or 'sein' (to be). Typical expressions are 'zum Spielball werden' (to become a pawn) or 'der Spielball von jemandem sein' (to be someone's pawn).
EXAMPLE
Das Unternehmen wurde zum Spielball internationaler Investoren.
The company became a pawn of international investors.
Genitive construction
In the figurative meaning, it is often followed by a genitive that names the controlling power. Examples are 'Spielball der Interessen' (pawn of interests), 'Spielball der Politik' (pawn of politics), or 'Spielball der Mächte' (pawn of the powers).
EXAMPLE
Die Region ist seit Jahrzehnten ein Spielball der Großmächte.
The region has been a pawn of the great powers for decades.
Compare with
Spielball vs Fußball
soccer / football
'Fußball' and 'Spielball' can both mean a ball that you play with. But 'Fußball' is more specific: it is the ball for the sport of soccer. 'Spielball' is more general and can be a ball for various games or sports. The words can be confused when it is only clear that a ball is needed. If you are talking about soccer training or a soccer match, 'Fußball' sounds more natural. If the sport is not important or different balls could be meant, 'Spielball' fits better.
Spielball
Für das Turnier bringt das Team einen neuen Spielball mit.
The team is bringing a new play ball for the tournament.
Fußball
Der Fußball von Herrn Klein liegt noch im Kofferraum.
Mr. Klein's soccer ball is still in the trunk.
In real life
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