Abbildung

Meaning and Usage

Abbildung translates to "illustration" or "figure" in English. In German, it is commonly used to refer to a visual representation, such as a drawing, photo, or diagram, especially in the context of academic or scientific literature.

Linguistic Analysis

The word "Abbildung" is a noun and is composed of the prefix "Ab" and the root "bildung." The prefix "Ab" can denote "away" or "off," while "bildung" means "formation" or "education." When combined, "Abbildung" can be understood as a formation or representation taken away from the original, reflecting the meaning of an illustration.

Comparisons between German and English

The word "Abbildung" shares similarities with the English word "image" in terms of its function, as both words refer to a visual representation. However, "Abbildung" is more specific in its usage, often being employed in academic or technical contexts.

Cultural Context

In academic or technical German literature, "Abbildung" is regularly used to reference visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations, serving as an integral part of conveying information in a clear and concise manner.

Example Sentences

  1. Die Abbildung zeigt die Struktur des Moleküls.
  2. In der wissenschaftlichen Arbeit gibt es mehrere Abbildungen zur Veranschaulichung der Ergebnisse.

Memory Tips

To remember the meaning of "Abbildung," think of the "Ab-" prefix denoting "away" or "off," and "bildung" as "formation" or "education," which altogether creates the concept of a visual representation taken away from the original.

Additional Vocabulary

  • Die Zeichnung (drawing)
  • Die Grafik (graphic)
  • Das Diagramm (diagram)
  • Die Darstellung (depiction)

Gender and Plural

Gender: feminine Plural: die Abbildungen

Conjugation

Not applicable as "Abbildung" is a noun.