illustration / mapping
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illustration
A visual representation such as an image, drawing, diagram, or photo that serves to illustrate something in a text.
Die Abbildung auf Seite 50 zeigt den detaillierten Aufbau der Zelle.
The illustration on page 50 shows the detailed structure of the cell.
'Abbildung' (illustration/mapping) is a noun derived from the verb 'abbilden' (to depict something visually). It is closely related to the word 'das Bild' (the picture/image). The ending '-ung' makes it a feminine noun.
Der Künstler wollte die Realität möglichst genau abbilden.
The artist wanted to depict reality as accurately as possible.
In books or academic texts, an illustration is often referred to directly. Typical phrases are 'siehe Abbildung 3' (see Figure 3) or 'Abbildung 1 zeigt ...' (Figure 1 shows ...).
Wie in Abbildung 2 zu sehen ist, hat sich der Markt stark verändert.
As can be seen in Figure 2, the market has changed significantly.
The mathematical meaning of 'Abbildung' (mapping) is purely technical language. Outside mathematical or logical contexts, you will practically never encounter this meaning.
In der Vorlesung haben wir heute lineare Abbildungen besprochen.
In the lecture today, we discussed linear mappings.
picture / image
'das Bild' and 'die Abbildung' can both mean a visual representation. 'Bild' is the more general word and fits everyday use for photos, paintings, or drawings. 'Abbildung' is more often used in books, articles, instructions, or reports when an illustration explains or shows something. Learners may confuse the words because an Abbildung is often also a Bild. In practical terms: on the wall or on your phone, people usually say 'Bild'; in a text with a number or explanation, 'Abbildung' sounds more natural.
In der Abbildung auf Seite 12 sieht man den Aufbau der Maschine.
In the illustration on page 12, you can see the structure of the machine.
Nach der Arbeit sehe ich mir das Bild von unserem Ausflug noch einmal an.
After work, I look at the picture from our trip again.