spread / propagation
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spread
The process by which something (e.g., a disease, a piece of news, a fire, an animal species) spreads over a larger geographic area or to more individuals.
Die Behörden versuchen, die Ausbreitung des Waldbrandes zu verhindern.
The authorities are trying to prevent the spread of the forest fire.
propagation
In physics, the propagation of waves, such as sound waves or light waves, through space.
Die Ausbreitung des Lichts im Vakuum erfolgt mit konstanter Geschwindigkeit.
The propagation of light in a vacuum occurs at a constant speed.
'Die Ausbreitung' (spread / propagation) is the noun form of the reflexive verb 'sich ausbreiten' (to spread). It derives from the adjective 'breit' (wide) and describes the process by which something occupies a larger area or space.
Das Feuer breitete sich schnell im ganzen Gebäude aus.
The fire spread quickly throughout the whole building.
This word is often used for things that spread uncontrollably. Typical examples are the spread of a disease, a virus, a fire, or even rumors and news.
Die schnelle Ausbreitung der Nachricht überraschte alle.
The rapid spread of the news surprised everyone.
The thing that is spreading usually appears in the genitive directly after the noun or is connected with 'von' + dative. Common verbs in this context are 'verhindern' (to prevent), 'stoppen' (to stop), and 'eindämmen' (to contain).
Die Regierung will die Ausbreitung des Virus eindämmen.
The government wants to contain the spread of the virus.
In physics, 'Ausbreitung' (propagation) describes the movement of waves. If you read the word in connection with 'Licht' (light), 'Schall' (sound), or 'Wellen' (waves), this technical meaning is intended.
Wir untersuchen die Ausbreitung von Schallwellen unter Wasser.
We are studying the propagation of sound waves underwater.
spread / distribution
Verbreitung and Ausbreitung can both refer to the growing reach of diseases, news, or ideas. Verbreitung focuses more on passing something on or increasing awareness, while Ausbreitung emphasizes growth in geographic extent or numbers. Choose Verbreitung for active dissemination and Ausbreitung for an expanding scope.
Die Ausbreitung der Krankheit erfasste innerhalb einer Woche mehrere Orte.
The spread of the disease reached several towns within a week.
Die Verbreitung der Warnung durch die Behörden erreichte schnell viele Menschen.
The authorities' dissemination of the warning reached many people quickly.
