noun

die Kulisse, -n

backdrop · scenery · set

Ein Teil der Bühne oder des Bildes, der den Ort zeigt und die Szene echt wirken lässt.

The German word "Kulisse" is a noun meaning "scenery", "backdrop", or "setting" in a theatrical or metaphorical sense. It originally refers to the stage background or side wings in a theater.

  • The word is borrowed from French "coulisse", related to moving parts or sliding panels in the theater, so it doesn’t decompose into German subwords here.

Similar words:

  • Hintergrund (background)
  • Szenerie (scenery)
  • Bühnenbild (stage set)

Differences:

  • Kulisse specifically refers to the theatrical or visual backdrop aspect, often emphasizing illusion or context.
  • Hintergrund is more general, meaning any kind of background.
  • Bühnenbild tends to emphasize the physical stage set design rather than the entire setting or illusion.
  • Szenerie is often used in natural or landscape contexts, or more general stage settings.

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Examples

Die Schauspieler stehen vor einer beeindruckenden Kulisse.noun

The actors are standing in front of an impressive backdrop.

Hinter der Kulisse herrscht geschäftiges Treiben.noun

Behind the backdrop, there is a bustle of activity.

Hinter der Kulisse bereitet sich das Team vor.noun

Behind the backdrop the team is getting ready.

Vor der Kulisse wird das Foto perfekt.noun

In front of the backdrop, the photo will be perfect.

Welche Kulissen benötigen wir für das neue Stück?noun

What scenery do we need for the new play?

Wir bauen eine Kulisse für das Schultheater.noun

We are building a set for the school theater.

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