tool
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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.
tool
In a figurative sense, a means, method, or skill used to achieve a particular goal or handle a task.
Mathematik ist ein wichtiges Werkzeug für Ingenieure.
Mathematics is an important tool for engineers.
'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.
weapon
“Waffe” and “Werkzeug” can both figuratively refer to a helpful skill or method. As a “Waffe”, it is used against an opposing side to gain an advantage. “Werkzeug”, on the other hand, emphasizes its practical usefulness for solving a task.
Ihre genaue Kenntnis der Zahlen ist ein wichtiges Werkzeug bei der Vorbereitung des Angebots.
Her precise knowledge of the figures is an important tool in preparing the proposal.
Ihre genaue Kenntnis der Zahlen ist ihre stärkste Waffe gegen die Konkurrenz.
Her precise knowledge of the figures is her strongest weapon against the competition.
