The state authorization to practice an academic healthcare profession, especially as a doctor, dentist, veterinarian, pharmacist, or psychotherapist in Germany. It is the requirement for being allowed to practice the profession independently and on one's own responsibility.
example
Nach erfolgreichem Abschluss ihres Medizinstudiums erhielt sie die Approbation als Ärztin.
After successfully completing her medical studies, she received her medical license as a doctor.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word comes from the Latin 'approbatio' (recognition, approval). The ending '-tion' is a typical signal for a feminine noun that describes a process or an abstract concept.
EXAMPLE
Die Bearbeitung ihres Antrags auf Approbation dauerte mehrere Monate.
The processing of her application for a medical license took several months.
Register and context
'Approbation' (medical license) is a very formal term from administrative and professional law (official language). It is used almost exclusively in the context of academic healthcare professions such as doctor, pharmacist, or psychotherapist.
EXAMPLE
Ohne Approbation darf ein Arzt in Deutschland nicht praktizieren.
Without a medical license, a doctor is not allowed to practice in Germany.
Typical verbs
Common verbs used in connection with 'Approbation' (medical license) are 'beantragen' (to apply for), 'erhalten' (to receive), 'erteilen' (to grant, by the authority), or 'entziehen' (to revoke, as a punishment).
EXAMPLE
Wegen eines schweren Fehlers wurde dem Arzt die Approbation entzogen.
Because of a serious mistake, the doctor's medical license was revoked.
Use with 'als'
To name the specific profession for which the license applies, the preposition 'als' (as) is used. The structure is: die Approbation als [Beruf] (the license as [profession]).
EXAMPLE
Er hat seine Approbation als Apotheker vor zehn Jahren erhalten.
He received his license as a pharmacist ten years ago.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Approbation vs Anerkennung
recognition
'die Anerkennung' and 'die Approbation' can both mean an official confirmation. 'Anerkennung' is more general: a degree, a status, or a legal matter is officially accepted as valid. 'Approbation' is much more specific. It is the state permission to independently practice a healthcare profession such as doctor, dentist, or pharmacist. The words can be confused because both occur in administrative and professional contexts. But when it is about the professional license for a healthcare profession, 'Approbation' is the precise word.
Approbation
Nach dem Studium beantragt er die Approbation als Arzt.
After his studies, he applies for his medical license as a doctor.
Anerkennung
Die Anerkennung ihres Diploms dauerte mehrere Monate.
The recognition of her diploma took several months.
