animation
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animation
The technique in which the illusion of movement is created through a rapid sequence of individual images, as in animated or computer films.
Die Animationen in diesem neuen Pixar-Film sind unglaublich realistisch.
The animations in this new Pixar film are incredibly realistic.
entertainment program
An entertainment program with organized activities for guests, especially in hotels, holiday resorts, or on cruise ships.
Das Hotel bietet für Kinder den ganzen Tag Animation am Pool an.
The hotel offers an entertainment program for children at the pool all day.
motivation
The encouragement or motivation of people to do a certain activity or show a certain behavior.
Die Animation der Mitarbeiter zu mehr Eigeninitiative war das Ziel des Workshops.
The motivation of employees to show more initiative was the goal of the workshop.
'Die Animation' is the noun related to the verb 'animieren' (to encourage / to animate). When someone 'animiert' someone to do something, they bring about that person's 'Animation'. This connection helps you understand the different meanings.
Der Clown animierte die Kinder zum Mitmachen.
The clown encouraged the children to join in.
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. If it is about films, computers, or drawings, it refers to the film technique. In the context of holidays, hotels, or children, it refers to the entertainment program. If people are talking about employees or goals, it means motivation.
Die Computer-Animationen in dem Spiel sehen fantastisch aus.
The computer animations in the game look fantastic.
In a tourism context, 'Animation' is often combined with verbs like 'anbieten' (to offer) or 'teilnehmen' (to participate). There is also often an 'Animation für Kinder' (entertainment program for children).
Das Clubhotel bietet ein großes Programm zur Animation der Gäste an.
The club hotel offers a large program to entertain the guests.
The meaning 'Anregung' (encouragement) or 'Motivation' (motivation) is mainly used in formal or professional contexts, for example in education or management.
Ein Ziel des Seminars war die Animation zu kreativerem Denken.
One goal of the seminar was the encouragement of more creative thinking.
conversation / entertainment / maintenance
Both words can refer to a program for guests that provides variety and enjoyment. „Animation“ specifically means organized activities that guests can take part in, while „Unterhaltung“ also includes performances or offerings that are simply watched. „Animation“ is especially suitable for games and shared activities.
Die Animation am Nachmittag lädt die Gäste zu Spielen und gemeinsamen Tänzen ein.
The afternoon entertainment program invites the guests to play games and dance together.
Die Unterhaltung am Abend besteht aus einer Musikshow, die die Gäste nur anschauen.
The evening entertainment consists of a music show that the guests simply watch.
