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
'der Computer' and 'der Taschenrechner' are both electronic devices and can work with numbers. But the difference is clear: a computer can use many different programs, store data, write texts, work on the internet, and much more. A calculator is a small device used mainly for calculating. Learners may confuse the words because both devices can calculate. If it is only about math problems and calculations, 'Taschenrechner' fits. For a versatile device with programs, you say 'Computer'.
Für die Matheprüfung darf jeder einen Taschenrechner benutzen.
For the math exam, everyone is allowed to use a calculator.
Laura speichert die Fotos von der Reise auf ihrem Computer.
Laura saves the photos from the trip on her computer.