march / gathering
Loading your saved state.
march
The organized, collective movement of a large crowd of people, often as a political demonstration, parade, or military display.
Tausende Menschen beteiligten sich am Aufmarsch gegen die neue Politik.
Thousands of people took part in the march against the new policy.
gathering
The collective appearance of a particular group of people in one place, often with an impressive or slightly ironic emphasis.
Zur Eröffnung der Galerie gab es einen großen Aufmarsch von Künstlern und Kritikern.
At the opening of the gallery, there was a large gathering of artists and critics.
The word is derived from the verb 'aufmarschieren' (to march in / assemble). It consists of the prefix 'auf-' and the noun 'der Marsch' (march). The prefix emphasizes the appearance and gathering of a group in one place.
Die Polizei beobachtete den Aufmarsch der Demonstranten.
The police observed the march of the demonstrators.
In the political or military meaning, 'Aufmarsch' often has a negative or threatening connotation. It is frequently used for parades by extremist groups or military shows of force.
Der Aufmarsch der Truppen an der Grenze sorgte für internationale Spannungen.
The march of troops at the border caused international tensions.
In this meaning, the word is often used in a slightly ironic or exaggerated way. It describes the collective appearance of a particular group as if it were a large, organized event.
Zur Filmpremiere gab es einen riesigen Aufmarsch an Prominenten.
At the film premiere, there was a huge gathering of celebrities.
Common constructions are 'ein Aufmarsch von' (a gathering/march of) followed by the group of people, or 'zu einem Aufmarsch aufrufen' (to call for a march), which means to organize a demonstration.
Die Gewerkschaft rief zu einem Aufmarsch für höhere Löhne auf.
The union called for a march for higher wages.
move / parade
Both words can refer to the collective movement of a larger group through a public space. “Der Umzug” is usually festive or traditional and not necessarily political or military. “Der Aufmarsch,” by contrast, emphasizes the demonstrative impact of a large crowd and can have political or military overtones.
Der politische Aufmarsch zieht am Samstag durch die Innenstadt.
The political march will make its way through the city center on Saturday.
Der festliche Umzug zieht am Samstag durch die Innenstadt.
The festive parade will make its way through the city center on Saturday.
