Noun
/gɜrmən vɛtʃ/
"German vetch" (Vicia sativa) is a climbing plant commonly used as forage and cover crop. It belongs to the legume family and is characterized by its green leaves and purple flowers. In English, it is primarily used in agricultural contexts. The frequency of use varies, but it is more common in written contexts, such as in agricultural reports and texts, compared to oral speech.
Example Sentences:
- German vetch is often planted as a cover crop to improve soil health.
(Germán vetch es a menudo plantada como un cultivo de cobertura para mejorar la salud del suelo.)
Farmers appreciate German vetch for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
(Los agricultores aprecian la germán vetch por su capacidad para fijar nitrógeno en el suelo.)
In some regions, German vetch is also used as a food source for livestock.
(En algunas regiones, la germán vetch también se utiliza como fuente de alimento para el ganado.)
"German vetch" is not widely featured in common idiomatic expressions. However, its use in agricultural contexts can lead to various phrases where cover crops and soil health play a role. Here are some example sentences that relate to the themes of agriculture and growth:
Using cover crops like German vetch can help you reap what you sow.
(Usar cultivos de cobertura como la germán vetch puede ayudarte a cosechar lo que siembras.)
If you want to make your fields thrive, consider planting German vetch.
(Si quieres hacer prosperar tus campos, considera plantar germán vetch.)
In agriculture, good practices will yield results, just like German vetch improves soil fertility.
(En agricultura, las buenas prácticas producirán resultados, así como la germán vetch mejora la fertilidad del suelo.)
The term "vetch" comes from Middle English "fetche," and traces back to Old French "fèche," from Latin "faba," meaning "bean." The addition of "German" refers to its association with Germany or its origin in regions that includes German-speaking areas.
Synonyms: - Common vetch - Sativa vetch
Antonyms: - None directly applicable, as "German vetch" doesn't have a clear antonym due to its specific agricultural context. However, non-leguminous crops could be seen as oppositional in the context of soil health improvement.