tool
Loading your saved state.
tool
An object that you use with your hand to carry out manual work, make something, or repair something. Examples include a hammer, screwdriver, or pliers.
Ich habe mein ganzes Werkzeug in einem Koffer im Keller.
I keep all my tools in a case in the basement.
'Werkzeug' (tool) is made up of 'Werk' (work, creation) and 'Zeug' (things, stuff). So literally it means 'work things'.
Für die Reparatur brauche ich das richtige Werkzeug.
I need the right tool for the repair.
The word 'Werkzeug' (tool/tools) in the singular can refer both to a single tool and to a whole collection of tools. The plural 'Werkzeuge' emphasizes that several different individual objects are meant.
Ein Hammer ist ein Werkzeug.
A hammer is a tool.
You can recognize the figurative meaning by the fact that it is not a physical object. When language, methods, or knowledge are referred to as 'Werkzeug' (a tool), the figurative meaning is always intended.
Sprache ist das wichtigste Werkzeug der Kommunikation.
Language is the most important tool of communication.
remedy / means
'das Mittel' and 'das Werkzeug' can both be something used to solve a task or achieve a goal. 'Mittel' is very general and often means a method or approach. 'Werkzeug' is primarily a concrete object used for manual work, such as a hammer or pliers. In a figurative sense, however, 'Werkzeug' can also be a method or skill. This is why the words can be confused. If it is really about repairing or building something, 'Werkzeug' sounds more natural. If it is about a strategy or possibility, 'Mittel' is often more neutral and general.
Für die Reparatur der Tür braucht Max das richtige Werkzeug.
Max needs the right tool to repair the door.
Ein ruhiges Gespräch ist oft ein gutes Mittel, um Streit zu vermeiden.
A calm conversation is often a good means of avoiding conflict.