reiben
rub · grate
Mit der Hand oder einem Gegenstand über eine Oberfläche hin- und herfahren, oft um etwas zu glätten, zu säubern oder Wärme zu erzeugen.
The German word "reiben" is a verb that means "to rub" or "to graze". It is used to describe the action of friction or rubbing two surfaces together. "Reiben" can also refer to the process of shredding or grating food, such as cheese or vegetables. Similar words in German include "schmirgeln" (to sand or abrade), "abreiben" (to wipe off) and "kratzen" (to scratch).
The primary distinction between "reiben" and these similar words is that "reiben" specifically involves a rubbing motion often resulting in the removal or shredding of material, whereas the other terms may imply different kinds of contact or actions.
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Examples
Er reibt sich die Augen.verb
He rubs his eyes.
Hast du den Käse schon für die Pizza gerieben?verb
Have you grated the cheese for the pizza yet?
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