encounter / clash
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encounter / meeting
A meeting or coming together of two or more people, groups, or parties, often in the context of a competition, confrontation, or important event.
Das Aufeinandertreffen der beiden besten Tennisspieler im Finale war extrem spannend.
The encounter between the two best tennis players in the final was extremely exciting.
clash / collision
The coming together or collision of opposing ideas, cultures, opinions, or forces.
In der Podiumsdiskussion kam es zu einem heftigen Aufeinandertreffen unterschiedlicher politischer Ansichten.
During the panel discussion, there was a fierce clash of different political views.
The word is a nominalization of the verb 'aufeinandertreffen' (to meet / to clash). It consists of 'aufeinander' (one another) and 'treffen' (to meet). So it literally describes an event in which two or more things or people meet.
Das erste Aufeinandertreffen der beiden war bei einer Konferenz.
Their first encounter was at a conference.
To say who or what meets or clashes, you usually use the genitive or the preposition 'von' with the dative. Both constructions are very common.
Das Aufeinandertreffen der beiden Kulturen war sehr inspirierend.
The encounter between the two cultures was very inspiring.
In this meaning, the word is often used in the context of sports, politics, or business. It describes a direct encounter between competitors or parties.
Alle warten auf das Aufeinandertreffen der beiden Kanzlerkandidaten im TV-Duell.
Everyone is waiting for the encounter between the two candidates for chancellor in the TV debate.
This meaning refers to the coming together of abstract concepts. Typical combinations are 'Aufeinandertreffen von Tradition und Moderne' (clash between tradition and modernity) or 'von verschiedenen Meinungen' (of different opinions).
Die Ausstellung thematisiert das Aufeinandertreffen von Kunst und Wissenschaft.
The exhibition focuses on the encounter between art and science.
dispute / engagement
An Auseinandersetzung is the dispute or debate itself and can develop over a longer period. An Aufeinandertreffen, by contrast, mainly refers to the moment when opposing opinions or forces come together and a confrontation arises.
Beim ersten Aufeinandertreffen der beiden Gruppen prallten ihre Meinungen zum Bauprojekt direkt aufeinander.
When the two groups first met, their opinions on the construction project immediately clashed.
Die Auseinandersetzung über das Bauprojekt dauerte den ganzen Abend.
The dispute about the construction project lasted all evening.
