01
der Ablauf
sequence
The order of events or steps in a process; the course of an action or event.
example
Der genaue Ablauf der Zeremonie wird noch bekannt gegeben.
The exact sequence of the ceremony will be announced later.
der Ablauf
sequence / drain
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of the prefix 'ab-' and the noun 'Lauf' (from 'laufen' (to run/walk)). The basic idea is that something takes its course and comes to an end or flows away.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen den Ablauf der Veranstaltung genau planen.
We have to plan the sequence of the event carefully.
Word family
'Der Ablauf' is the noun form of the verb 'ablaufen' (to run its course / expire / drain away). When something 'abläuft', 'der Ablauf' describes this process or its result.
EXAMPLE
Die Frist ist gestern abgelaufen.
The deadline expired yesterday.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'process', 'Ablauf' is often combined with adjectives that evaluate the course of events. Common phrases are: 'ein reibungsloser Ablauf' (a smooth process), 'der geplante Ablauf' (the planned sequence), or 'der tägliche Ablauf' (the daily routine).
EXAMPLE
Dank der guten Organisation hatten wir einen reibungslosen Ablauf.
Thanks to the good organization, we had a smooth process.
Fixed expression
This meaning is almost always used in the fixed expression 'nach Ablauf von etwas' (after the expiration of something) or 'nach Ablauf + genitive'. It often introduces a subordinate clause.
EXAMPLE
Nach Ablauf des Vertrags müssen Sie die Wohnung verlassen.
After the expiration of the contract, you must leave the apartment.
Context clue
This concrete, technical meaning can be recognized from context. It is used for physical openings through which liquids flow, e.g. in the bathroom or kitchen. Typical surrounding words are 'verstopft' (clogged), 'reinigen' (to clean), or 'Wasser' (water).
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte die Haare aus dem Ablauf der Badewanne entfernen?
Can you please remove the hair from the bathtub drain?
Compare with
Ablauf vs Programm
program
'das Programm' and 'der Ablauf' can both describe the sequence at an event or in a process. 'Programm' emphasizes which content, items, or activities are planned. 'Ablauf' puts more emphasis on how something happens, or is supposed to happen, step by step. That is why the words can easily be confused when talking about events. 'Programm' is natural when you are talking about the planned parts, for example music, a speech, and a break. 'Ablauf' fits better when you mean the exact sequence and organization.
Ablauf
Der Ablauf der Prüfung ist klar: zuerst die Anmeldung, dann der mündliche Teil.
The sequence of the exam is clear: first registration, then the oral part.
Programm
Die Mitarbeiterin erklärt den Gästen, was heute im Programm steht.
The employee explains to the guests what is on the program today.
In real life
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