Expert: Cornelia Neumann - 10/27/2009

Question
Dear Cornelia,

Please, how is the word “Drehscheibe” usually used in the modern language?

Also, what is the meaning of “Drehscheibe” as specifically used in the news programme of the same name on ZDF?

All the best, and many thanks,

Simon  

Answer
Hi Simon,

today's usage would mostly be that of trade/transport, as in "(Hafen X) ist eine Drehscheibe des internationalen Handels." In fact, the original meaning is transport-related - see the first meaning here:
http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drehscheibe_(Begriffskl%C3%A4rung)

The TV program would play on the idea that it was a place where information was moved along to the eventual users, the viewers.

Hope this helps,
Cornelia