primeval forest / jungle
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primeval forest
An original forest largely untouched by humans, with very high biodiversity.
Der Schutz der letzten Urwälder der Erde ist eine globale Aufgabe.
Protecting the last primeval forests on Earth is a global task.
The prefix 'Ur-' means 'original', 'very old', or 'first'. An 'Urwald' (primeval forest) is therefore an original forest untouched by humans. The prefix is also found in 'Urzeit' (prehistoric times) or 'Urgroßeltern' (great-grandparents).
Die Forscher entdeckten im Urwald eine bisher unbekannte Tierart.
The researchers discovered a previously unknown animal species in the primeval forest.
The context makes the meaning clear. If it is about nature, trees, and animals, the literal meaning is meant. If it is about bureaucracy, laws, or complex rules, it is used as a metaphor for something confusing.
Im Amazonas gibt es riesige Urwälder.
There are huge primeval forests in the Amazon.
In its figurative meaning, 'Urwald' (jungle) is often combined with 'aus' or 'an' and a plural noun. A typical phrase is 'sich durch den Urwald kämpfen' (to fight one's way through the jungle).
Er musste sich durch einen Urwald aus Formularen kämpfen, um den Antrag zu stellen.
He had to fight his way through a jungle of forms in order to submit the application.
forest
'der Wald' and 'der Urwald' both refer to large areas with many trees. 'Wald' is the general word and can also be a managed or used forest. 'Urwald' means a very original, primeval forest that has hardly been changed by humans. That is why 'Urwald' sounds stronger and more special. Both words can also be used figuratively for something very confusing or hard to navigate, but 'Urwald' then feels especially dense and difficult to see through. You can confuse them if you are only thinking of many trees.
Der Urwald ist so dicht, dass kaum Licht bis zum Boden kommt.
The primeval forest is so dense that hardly any light reaches the ground.
In der Schule lernen die Kinder, welche Tiere im Wald leben.
At school, the children learn which animals live in the forest.