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
der Ablauf
expiration
The end of a set deadline or period of validity.
EXAMPLE
Nach Ablauf der Frist können keine Anträge mehr eingereicht werden.
After the expiration of the deadline, no more applications can be submitted.
der Ablauf
drain
A device or opening through which a liquid can flow away; a drain or outlet.
EXAMPLE
Der Ablauf in der Dusche ist verstopft.
The drain in the shower is clogged.
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 Prozess
process / trial
Prozess and Ablauf can both describe an orderly sequence of work steps. Prozess additionally emphasizes how the steps work together and develop toward a result, while Ablauf focuses mainly on their chronological order or progression. Use Prozess for the development and Ablauf for the sequence.
Ablauf
Der Ablauf der Antragstellung ist in vier Schritte gegliedert.
The application process is divided into four steps.
Prozess
Der Prozess der Antragstellung dauert mehrere Wochen und führt zur Genehmigung.
The application process takes several weeks and leads to approval.
In real life
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