der Anschluss

Meaning and Usage

"Der Anschluss" in German refers to the connection, linking, or attachment of something to another. It can also mean annexation in a historical or political context, specifically referring to the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in 1938.

Linguistic Analysis

"Der Anschluss" is a noun and is formed by the prefix "an-" meaning "to" or "at" and "Schluss" which means "end" or "closure." The word originated from the verb "anschließen," which means "to connect" or "to attach."

Comparisons between German and English

The German word "Anschluss" can be translated into English as "connection," "link," or "annexation," depending on the context.

Cultural Context

In historical context, "der Anschluss" refers to the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in 1938, reflecting a pivotal event in European history.

Example Sentences

  1. Der Anschluss der Geräte ist einfach. (The connection of the devices is easy.)
  2. Der Anschluss Österreichs an das Deutsche Reich erfolgte 1938. (The annexation of Austria to the German Reich took place in 1938.)

Memory Tips

Create a mental image of attaching something (e.g., a plug) to another object, or think of the historical context of the annexation of Austria to aid in remembering the meaning of "der Anschluss."

Additional Vocabulary

  • Die Verbindung (connection)
  • Die Annexion (annexation)
  • Anhängen (to attach)
  • Verknüpfung (linkage)

Gender and Plural

Gender: masculine Plural: die Anschlüsse

Conjugation

Not applicable.