01
die Abwertung
devaluation
The official reduction in the value of a currency in relation to other currencies.
example
Die Abwertung des Dollars machte Importe teurer.
The devaluation of the dollar made imports more expensive.
die Abwertung
devaluation / disparagement
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of the prefix 'ab-' (downward) and the noun 'Wertung' (evaluation). An 'Abwertung' (devaluation/disparagement) is therefore a lowering of a value. The ending '-ung' indicates that it is a noun derived from a verb ('abwerten' — to devalue/disparage).
EXAMPLE
Jede Kritik wurde von ihm als persönliche Abwertung empfunden.
He perceived every criticism as a personal disparagement.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about 'Währung' (currency), 'Geld' (money), or 'Devisen' (foreign exchange), the economic meaning is intended. If it is about 'Personen' (people), 'Leistung' (performance), 'Arbeit' (work), or 'Kommentare' (comments), the social, belittling meaning is meant.
EXAMPLE
Die Zentralbank kündigte eine Abwertung der nationalen Währung an.
The central bank announced a devaluation of the national currency.
Register
In the meaning of a currency change, 'Abwertung' (devaluation) is a technical term from economics and finance.
EXAMPLE
Im Wirtschaftsstudium lernten wir über die Folgen einer Abwertung.
In economics class, we learned about the consequences of a devaluation.
Typical collocations
In a social context, people often speak of 'die Abwertung einer Person' (the disparagement of a person), 'die Abwertung von Arbeit' (the devaluation of work), or 'eine verbale Abwertung' (a verbal put-down).
EXAMPLE
Solche abfälligen Bemerkungen sind eine klare Abwertung seiner Bemühungen.
Such derogatory remarks are a clear disparagement of his efforts.
Compare with
Abwertung vs Aufwertung
upgrade / appreciation
'Aufwertung' and 'Abwertung' are opposites. With an 'Aufwertung', the value, reputation, importance, or quality of something increases. With an 'Abwertung', something is made less valuable or less important. Both words are also used in connection with currencies: a currency can be officially appreciated or devalued. Learners may confuse the words because they are built in a similar way. The prefixes help: 'auf-' points upward, so more value; 'ab-' points downward, so less value.
Abwertung
Seine ständige Kritik führte zu einer Abwertung der Arbeit des ganzen Teams.
His constant criticism led to a disparagement of the whole team's work.
Aufwertung
Die neuen Bänke und Blumen sorgen für eine deutliche Aufwertung des Platzes.
The new benches and flowers are giving the square a clear upgrade.
In real life
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