life belt

• Ein Rettungsmittel, meist ein Rettungsring oder eine Rettungsweste, das dazu dient, eine Person im Wasser über Wasser zu halten; im übertragenen Sinn etwas, das in einer schwierigen Lage entscheidende Hilfe oder Rettung bietet.

A life-saving device, typically a buoyant ring or vest, worn to keep a person afloat in water; also used metaphorically to describe something that provides crucial support or rescue in a difficult situation.

1. Safety deviceA2formal

   A buoyant device worn around the waist to keep a person afloat in water, used for safety.

   Rettungsgürtel

   • The sailor put on a life belt before jumping into the water.
   • Life belts are mandatory on all boats.
   • She grabbed a life belt and threw it to the drowning man.

2. Metaphorical supportB2informal

   Something that provides crucial help or support in a difficult situation.

   Rettungsanker

   • The emergency fund was a life belt for the struggling family.
   • His advice was a life belt during my financial crisis.
   • The new job offer came as a life belt just when I needed it most.