retrieval / call-off
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retrieval
The requesting and receiving of data or information from a storage system such as a database or the internet.
Der Abruf der aktuellen Wetterdaten erfolgt automatisch jede Stunde.
The retrieval of the current weather data happens automatically every hour.
'Der Abruf' (retrieval/call-off) is a noun derived from the separable verb 'abrufen'. 'Abrufen' means to request something so that it is provided or fetched.
Sie können Ihren Kontostand online jederzeit abrufen.
You can retrieve your account balance online at any time.
The phrase 'auf Abruf' (on call) is a fixed combination. It means that someone must be ready at any time to work or to respond to an assignment. It is often used with verbs such as 'sein' (to be), 'stehen' (to stand/be available), or 'arbeiten' (to work).
Der Techniker hat heute Nacht Dienst auf Abruf.
The technician is on call tonight.
In this meaning, 'Abruf' (retrieval) is used almost exclusively in the context of computers, the internet, and databases. It is always about requesting digital information.
Der Abruf der Videos dauert bei langsamer Internetverbindung länger.
Retrieving the videos takes longer with a slow internet connection.
This meaning is technical language from the fields of trade and logistics. Here, an 'Abruf' (call-off) is the formal request to deliver part of a total quantity that has already been ordered.
Die Produktion fordert die benötigten Teile per Abruf aus dem Lager an.
Production requests the required parts from the warehouse by call-off.
assignment / order / mission
'der Auftrag' and 'der Abruf' can both have to do with an order in trade or logistics. 'Auftrag' is the general order for goods or services. 'Abruf' is more specific: a certain partial quantity is requested from an already agreed overall order. That is why the words can be confused when deliveries are involved. Simply put: first there is the 'Auftrag', and later there can be individual 'Abrufe' from it.
Der erste Abruf aus dem Vertrag umfasst nur 100 Stühle.
The first call-off from the contract includes only 100 chairs.
Die Firma bestätigte den Auftrag über 500 neue Stühle.
The company confirmed the order for 500 new chairs.