elaborate / time-consuming
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elaborate / time-consuming
Describes an activity, process, or object that requires a lot of time, effort, or money. It can also refer to something that is designed in a very detailed or artistic way.
Die Herstellung von handgemachter Schokolade ist ein sehr aufwändiger Prozess.
Making handmade chocolate is a very time-consuming process.
The adjective 'aufwändig' (elaborate / time-consuming) is derived from the noun 'der Aufwand' (effort, expenditure, or costs). So something 'Aufwändiges' (elaborate) requires a lot of 'Aufwand' (effort).
Der Aufwand für die Restaurierung des alten Möbels war sehr hoch, die Arbeit war also sehr aufwändig.
The effort required to restore the old piece of furniture was very high, so the work was very time-consuming.
'Aufwändig' (elaborate / time-consuming) often describes processes, projects, or objects. Typical combinations are: 'ein aufwändiges Verfahren' (an elaborate procedure), 'eine aufwändige Renovierung' (an elaborate renovation), 'ein aufwändiges Gericht' (an elaborate dish), or 'eine aufwändige Recherche' (time-consuming research).
Sie hat zum Geburtstag ein sehr aufwändiges Menü mit fünf Gängen gekocht.
She cooked a very elaborate five-course menu for the birthday.
'Aufwand' (effort, expenditure) can refer to different resources: time, money, or effort. Usually the context makes clear what is meant. An 'aufwändige Reise' (elaborate trip) can be expensive, while an 'aufwändige Reparatur' (time-consuming repair) costs a lot of time and work.
Die Planung der Konferenz war extrem aufwändig und dauerte mehrere Monate.
Planning the conference was extremely time-consuming and took several months.
simple / just
'einfach' and 'aufwändig' can be opposites when it comes to work, time, or design. 'einfach' fits when something is easy to do or remains plain. 'aufwändig' fits when something costs a lot of time, effort, or money, or is made in great detail. With a recipe, a celebration, or a repair, 'einfach' shows: it can be done without much effort. 'aufwändig' shows: you have to prepare a lot or work precisely.
Die Dekoration für die Hochzeit ist sehr aufwändig.
The decorations for the wedding are very elaborate.
Für das Abendessen koche ich heute ein einfaches Gericht.
For dinner today, I'm cooking a simple dish.