takeoff / exit
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takeoff
The moment or action of pushing off from the ground or a surface in order to jump, especially in sports or parachuting.
Der Skispringer erwischte den perfekten Moment für den Absprung von der Schanze.
The ski jumper caught the perfect moment for the takeoff from the ramp.
The word 'Absprung' is made up of the prefix 'ab' (away) and the noun 'der Sprung' (jump). So it literally describes a jump away from something—whether from a physical edge or from a metaphorical situation.
Der Fallschirmspringer wartete auf das Signal zum Absprung.
The parachutist waited for the signal to jump.
In the figurative meaning, 'Absprung' is very often used in the fixed expression 'den Absprung schaffen' (to manage to get out in time). This means managing, just in time, to leave a negative or difficult situation.
Bevor die Firma insolvent wurde, hat sie zum Glück noch den Absprung geschafft.
Before the company became insolvent, she fortunately managed to get out in time.
In a sports context, 'Absprung' is often combined with the surface from which someone jumps. Typical formulations are 'der Absprung vom Turm' (the takeoff from the tower), 'vom Sprungbrett' (from the diving board), or 'von der Schanze' (from the ski jump).
Die Turnerin trainiert den Absprung vom Schwebebalken.
The gymnast is practicing the takeoff from the balance beam.
start
'der Start' and 'der Absprung' can both stand at the beginning of a movement. But 'der Start' is more general: a race begins, a plane takes off, or a journey gets underway. 'der Absprung' refers more specifically to the moment when you push off from the ground or from a surface, for example when jumping or parachuting. The words can be confused when talking about sports or flying. The important point is: 'Absprung' only fits when a jump or a push-off is really meant. In the phrase 'den Absprung schaffen' (to manage to get out in time), it also means leaving a difficult situation; that is not a normal 'Start'.
Beim Weitsprung muss der Absprung genau auf dem Brett passieren.
In the long jump, the takeoff has to happen exactly on the board.
Kurz vor dem Start der Rakete waren alle sehr gespannt.
Shortly before the rocket's takeoff, everyone was very excited.