Dwarswissel

Dwarswissel is a Dutch term that translates to "cross switch" or "diagonal switch." In its most common usage, it refers to a type of railway turnout, which is a device used to guide trains from one track to another. Unlike a standard switch, which typically allows for a straight movement and a diverging path, a dwarswissel is designed to allow trains to move between two parallel tracks at an angle. This enables more flexible routing and can be particularly useful in complex station layouts or junctions where space is limited.

The mechanism of a dwarswissel involves movable rail sections that are precisely engineered to create a continuous path for the train's wheels. When a train is to be diverted, the switch points are moved to align the desired track. The angled nature of the dwarswissel can sometimes lead to a slightly more pronounced jolt or noise when a train passes over it compared to a straight switch, though modern designs aim to minimize this.

Beyond railway applications, the term "dwarswissel" can also be used metaphorically to describe a significant change or a shift in direction, particularly in a context that implies a crossing or deviation from a previous course. For example, a political party might experience a "dwarswissel" in its policy if it adopts a stance that is contrary to its established platform. This metaphorical usage highlights the core concept of an unexpected or angled change.