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Skalpell

scalpel

noun skal-PEL Rare

Origin: from Latin scalpellum

Usage Note

Skalpell is the surgeon's small sharp blade used for incisions. Das Skalpell führen (to wield the scalpel) is a journalistic metaphor for making cuts, e.g. in a budget.

Examples

"Der Chirurg setzte das Skalpell mit ruhiger Hand an die markierte Stelle."

Natural Translation

The surgeon placed the scalpel steadily at the marked spot.

Literal Translation

The surgeon set the scalpel with steady hand to the marked spot.

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