spannen
tighten · stretch
Etwas festziehen oder dehnen, damit es straff wird.
The German word "spannen" is a verb that means "to span," "to stretch," or "to tighten." It can be used in various contexts, such as stretching a canvas, pulling a rope tight, or creating tension in an object.
The word is derived from the basic idea of applying tension or force, and it can imply actions such as tightening or extending something to create a connection or support.
Similar words in German include "dehnen" (to stretch), "anziehen" (to pull tight), and "straffen" (to tighten).
The main difference between "spannen" and these similar words lies in the specific nuances of action: "dehnen" typically refers to extending something, while "anziehen" emphasizes pulling something toward a center, and "straffen" involves making something taut. "Spannen" can encapsulate a wider range of meanings depending on the context.
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Examples
Wir spannen das Seil straff.verb
We tighten the rope taut.
Sie spannen die Leinwand für das Gemälde.verb
They stretch the canvas for the painting.
Sie spannen die Wäscheleine im Garten.verb
They tighten the clothesline in the garden.
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