01
abwickeln
to process
To carry out and complete a process, transaction, or task according to plan.
example
Die Bezahlung wird komplett online abgewickelt.
The payment is processed completely online.
abwickeln
to process / unwind / liquidate
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Abwickeln' (to process/unwind/liquidate) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ab-' separates from the verb in a main clause and stands at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Die Firma wickelt das Geschäft schnell ab.
The company processes the transaction quickly.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning of 'abwickeln' from the object. If it is a physical object such as a rope or thread, the literal meaning 'abrollen' (to unroll) is meant. With abstract things such as a transaction, a purchase, or a company, it is about the figurative meaning 'durchführen' (to carry out/process) or 'auflösen' (to dissolve/liquidate).
EXAMPLE
Der Elektriker wickelt das Kabel von der Rolle ab.
The electrician unwinds the cable from the reel.
Typical collocations
In a business context, 'abwickeln' (to process) is often combined with financial or organizational processes. Typical phrases are 'einen Kauf abwickeln' (to process a purchase), 'eine Transaktion abwickeln' (to process a transaction), or 'den Zahlungsverkehr abwickeln' (to handle payment transactions).
EXAMPLE
Der gesamte Bestellprozess wird online abgewickelt.
The entire ordering process is handled online.
Register
The meaning 'eine Firma auflösen' (to dissolve/liquidate a company) belongs to business and legal language. It describes the formal process of closing a company.
EXAMPLE
Der insolvente Konzern wird von einem Spezialistenteam abgewickelt.
The insolvent corporation is being liquidated by a team of specialists.
Compare with
abwickeln vs gründen
to found / be based on
'gründen' and 'abwickeln' can both have to do with companies or organizations, but they describe opposite phases. 'gründen' is used when something new is created, for example a company or an association. 'abwickeln' here means that a company or organization is dissolved and its remaining business is settled in an orderly way. In short: with 'gründen', something begins; with 'abwickeln', it ends.
abwickeln
Die alte Firma wird abgewickelt, weil sie keine Aufträge mehr bekommt.
The old company is being liquidated because it no longer gets any orders.
gründen
Nach dem Studium möchte Lena eine eigene Firma gründen.
After university, Lena wants to found her own company.
In real life
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