expansion / removal
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expansion
The expansion, enlargement, or improvement of something existing, such as infrastructure, services, or skills.
Der Ausbau des Glasfasernetzes in der Region kommt gut voran.
The expansion of the fiber-optic network in the region is progressing well.
'Der Ausbau' is derived from the separable verb 'ausbauen' (to expand / to remove). This verb can mean two almost opposite things: to enlarge or expand something (build outward) or to remove a part from a system (build out). This double meaning carries over to the noun.
Wir wollen die Terrasse nächstes Jahr ausbauen.
We want to expand the terrace next year.
To distinguish between 'Erweiterung' (expansion) and 'Entfernung' (removal), pay attention to the object. The 'Ausbau' of large systems such as 'Netz' (network), 'Infrastruktur' (infrastructure), or 'Angebot' (offering/service range) means expansion. The 'Ausbau' of specific components such as 'Motor' (engine), 'Festplatte' (hard drive), or 'Bauteil' (component) means their removal.
Der Ausbau der erneuerbaren Energien ist ein politisches Ziel.
The expansion of renewable energies is a political goal.
In the most common meaning 'Erweiterung' (expansion), 'Ausbau' is often used for public or technical projects. Typical examples are 'Ausbau des öffentlichen Nahverkehrs' (expansion of public transport), 'Ausbau der Kinderbetreuung' (expansion of childcare), or 'Ausbau des Stromnetzes' (expansion of the power grid).
Die Bürger fordern einen schnelleren Ausbau der Radwege.
Citizens are demanding a faster expansion of bike paths.
When it is about buildings, 'Ausbau' describes converting an unfinished room into usable living space. Typical projects are 'Ausbau des Dachbodens' (conversion of the attic) or 'Ausbau des Kellers' (conversion of the basement).
Für den Ausbau des Kellers zu einem Hobbyraum brauchen wir eine Genehmigung.
For the conversion of the basement into a hobby room, we need a permit.
In connection with wine, 'Ausbau' is a technical term from winemaking. It describes the maturation process after fermentation and is often combined with the storage location, e.g. 'Ausbau im Holzfass' (aging in a wooden barrel).
Der Ausbau im Stahltank verleiht diesem Weißwein seine frische Note.
Aging in a steel tank gives this white wine its fresh note.
structure / assembly
'der Aufbau' and 'der Ausbau' can both describe a process in which something is created or improved. The important difference is the starting point. 'Aufbau' is used when something is newly built, assembled, or developed again after a crisis. 'Ausbau' is used when something already exists and is made larger, better, or more complete. That is why the words can easily be confused, especially with projects or infrastructure. A simple way to remember it is: with 'Aufbau', the foundation is created; with 'Ausbau', something existing is expanded.
Die Stadt plant den Ausbau der Fahrradwege im nächsten Jahr.
The city is planning the expansion of the bike paths next year.
Für den Aufbau des Regals brauchen wir noch einen Schraubenzieher.
We still need a screwdriver to assemble the shelf.