swamp
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swamp
An area with permanently wet, muddy ground where certain plants such as reeds typically grow. Swamps are important ecosystems for many animal and plant species.
Viele seltene Vogelarten brüten in diesem Sumpf.
Many rare bird species breed in this swamp.
swamp
An environment characterized by corruption, crime, or immoral behavior. This term is used figuratively to describe a state of depravity.
Die Journalisten deckten einen Sumpf aus Korruption und Bestechung in der Stadtverwaltung auf.
The journalists uncovered a swamp of corruption and bribery in the city administration.
The meaning of 'Sumpf' is clear from the context. If people are talking about nature, animals, and landscapes, it refers to the wetland. In texts about politics, crime, or morality, the term is used figuratively for a corrupt environment.
Im Biologieunterricht lernten wir über das Ökosystem Sumpf.
In biology class, we learned about the swamp ecosystem.
To describe movement into the swamp, you use the preposition 'in' with the accusative. To describe a state or position in the swamp, you use 'in' with the dative.
Der Wanderer ist versehentlich in den Sumpf getreten.
The hiker accidentally stepped into the swamp.
In this meaning, 'Sumpf' is used as a metaphor for a negative, morally reprehensible environment. It is a strong, vivid description for conditions perceived as dirty or opaque.
Er geriet in einen Sumpf aus Schulden und illegalen Geschäften.
He got caught up in a swamp of debt and illegal business dealings.
In the figurative sense, 'Sumpf' is often combined with the verb 'trockenlegen' (to drain). It means eliminating criminal or corrupt structures. Combinations such as 'Sumpf aus Korruption' (swamp of corruption) or 'Sumpf der Kriminalität' (swamp of crime) are also common.
Die neue Bürgermeisterin will den Sumpf der Korruption im Rathaus trockenlegen.
The new mayor wants to drain the swamp of corruption in city hall.
mud
Der Sumpf is a permanently wet area with muddy ground and characteristic vegetation. Der Schlamm, by contrast, is the wet, mushy mass of soil and water that can cover the ground. Use Sumpf for the whole area and Schlamm for the material.
Hinter dem Dorf liegt ein Sumpf mit Schilf und dauerhaft nassem Boden.
Behind the village lies a swamp with reeds and permanently wet ground.
Nach dem starken Regen bedeckt tiefer Schlamm den Weg hinter dem Dorf.
After the heavy rain, deep mud covers the path behind the village.
