dwarf
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dwarf
A small, human-like mythical being that often appears in fairy tales, legends, and fantasy literature and is frequently depicted as bearded and living in mountains.
In dem Märchen helfen sieben Zwerge Schneewittchen.
In the fairy tale, seven dwarfs help Snow White.
The word 'Zwerg' (dwarf) is part of many compounds that refer to something small. Examples include 'Zwergplanet' (dwarf planet), 'Zwergstaat' (microstate), or the well-known 'Gartenzwerg' (garden gnome).
Pluto wird heute als Zwergplanet klassifiziert.
Pluto is now classified as a dwarf planet.
In this meaning, you will find 'Zwerg' (dwarf) almost exclusively in the context of fairy tales, legends, myths, and fantasy literature. Typical accompanying words are 'Bergwerk' (mine), 'Schatz' (treasure), or 'Bart' (beard).
Die Zwerge in der Geschichte bewachten einen großen Schatz in den Bergen.
The dwarfs in the story guarded a great treasure in the mountains.
When this term is used for a person with short stature, it is often considered outdated today and can be perceived as hurtful. In medical or respectful contexts, other terms are preferred.
Der Film wurde für seine Darstellung von Menschen mit Kleinwuchs kritisiert.
The film was criticized for its portrayal of people with dwarfism.
As an astronomical term, 'Zwerg' (dwarf) is a technical word. You can recognize this meaning from typical combinations such as 'Weißer Zwerg' (white dwarf), 'Roter Zwerg' (red dwarf), or 'Brauner Zwerg' (brown dwarf).
Ein Roter Zwerg ist ein relativ kühler und kleiner Stern.
A red dwarf is a relatively cool and small star.
In this colloquial and derogatory meaning, 'Zwerg' (small fry) is used metaphorically to express a great difference in power, size, or influence.
Wirtschaftlich ist das Land im Vergleich zu seinen Nachbarn nur ein Zwerg.
Economically, the country is only small fry compared with its neighbors.
giant
'der Zwerg' and 'der Gigant' are often opposites when it comes to size or power. A dwarf is very small, especially as a character in fairy tales. Figuratively, it can also mean someone with little influence, but that sounds derogatory. A giant, by contrast, is very large, strong, or powerful. This can be a person, a creature, or even a large company. Memory tip: 'der Zwerg' stands for small; 'der Gigant' stands for huge or powerful.
Im Märchen wohnt der Zwerg tief im Berg und bewacht einen Schatz.
In the fairy tale, the dwarf lives deep inside the mountain and guards a treasure.
Der neue Konzern ist ein Gigant auf dem internationalen Markt.
The new corporation is a giant on the international market.