calculator
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calculator
A small, portable electronic device used to perform mathematical calculations.
In der Mathematikprüfung ist die Verwendung eines nicht programmierbaren Taschenrechners erlaubt.
In the math exam, the use of a non-programmable calculator is allowed.
'Taschenrechner' (calculator) is a compound noun made from 'Tasche' (bag/pocket) and 'Rechner' (calculator/computer). So it literally describes a calculator small enough to fit in a pocket. The 'n' is a linking n that connects the two parts of the word.
Ich habe die Zahlen schnell in meinen Taschenrechner eingegeben.
I quickly entered the numbers into my calculator.
The word belongs to the word family of 'rechnen' (to calculate). The 'Rechner' (calculator/computer) is the device you calculate with. This helps you derive the device's function directly from its name.
Kannst du das bitte ohne Taschenrechner im Kopf rechnen?
Can you please calculate that in your head without a calculator?
Common verbs used with 'Taschenrechner' (calculator) are 'benutzen' (to use), 'verwenden' (to use), 'eintippen' (to type in), and 'ausrechnen' (to calculate).
Für diese Aufgabe dürfen Sie einen Taschenrechner benutzen.
You may use a calculator for this exercise.
computer / calculator
Rechner is the more general term for an electronic device used to process data and often means a computer. Taschenrechner, by contrast, specifically refers to the small, portable device used for mathematical calculations. For complex tasks on a computer, Rechner is more appropriate; for a quick calculation on the go, Taschenrechner is the better choice.
Für die schnelle Rechnung unterwegs nimmt die Studentin ihren Taschenrechner.
The student takes her calculator for a quick calculation on the go.
Für die große Berechnung nutzt die Studentin den Rechner im Computerraum.
The student uses the computer in the computer lab for the complex calculation.
