01
der Sprung
jump
The action of pushing off the ground with the legs and moving through the air.
example
Mit einem großen Sprung überquerte die Katze den Zaun.
With one big jump, the cat crossed the fence.
der Sprung
jump / crack
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Sprung' (the jump) is the noun form of the verb 'springen' (to jump). This conversion from verb to noun without an additional ending is common with many strong verbs, e.g. 'laufen' (to run) → 'der Lauf' (the run), 'werfen' (to throw) → 'der Wurf' (the throw).
EXAMPLE
Sein Sprung über die Mauer war sehr elegant.
His jump over the wall was very elegant.
A crack in material
In this meaning, 'Sprung' (crack) is used for a crack in fragile things. Typical phrases are 'einen Sprung haben' (to have a crack) or 'einen Sprung bekommen' (to get a crack).
EXAMPLE
Vorsicht, die Tasse hat einen Sprung, sie ist nicht mehr dicht.
Careful, the cup has a crack; it no longer holds liquid.
Metaphorical meaning
'Sprung' (leap) is often used metaphorically for a rapid, positive development. Well-known fixed combinations are 'Karrieresprung' (career leap) or 'Quantensprung' (quantum leap).
EXAMPLE
Die Erfindung des Internets war ein Quantensprung für die Kommunikation.
The invention of the internet was a quantum leap for communication.
Fixed expression
The expression 'auf dem Sprung sein' means that you are in a hurry and have to leave right away. The wording is fixed and cannot be changed.
EXAMPLE
Ich kann nicht mehr lange reden, ich bin schon wieder auf dem Sprung.
I can't talk much longer; I'm already on the go again.
Compare with
Sprung vs Satz
sentence / set
'Satz' and 'Sprung' can both mean a quick movement through the air. 'Sprung' is the normal and general word for this. 'Satz' is usually used in this meaning in fixed expressions such as 'mit einem Satz' (with one bound). It then sounds a bit more vivid and emphasizes that the movement is quick and long. In many situations, you simply say 'Sprung'. 'Satz' fits especially when someone suddenly jumps somewhere with momentum.
Sprung
Hast du gesehen, wie weit der Sprung beim Training war?
Did you see how far the jump was during training?
Satz
Als die Tür aufging, war er mit einem Satz im Flur.
When the door opened, he was in the hallway in one bound.
In real life
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