01
der Ausgangspunkt
starting point
The place where a movement, journey, or action begins.
example
Unser Hotel war ein guter Ausgangspunkt für Ausflüge in die Umgebung.
Our hotel was a good starting point for trips into the surrounding area.
der Ausgangspunkt
starting point
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'der Ausgang' (the exit / starting point) and 'der Punkt' (the point). So it literally describes the point where something takes its course, that is, begins.
EXAMPLE
Der Parkplatz ist der Ausgangspunkt für viele Wanderwege.
The parking lot is the starting point for many hiking trails.
Fixed preposition
'Ausgangspunkt' (starting point) is very often used with the preposition 'für' (for) and the accusative to describe the goal or purpose of the beginning.
EXAMPLE
Dieser Gedanke war der Ausgangspunkt für seine gesamte Theorie.
This thought was the starting point for his entire theory.
Context clue
The meaning can easily be inferred from context. If it is about places, journeys, or routes, the spatial meaning is intended. If it is about ideas, discussions, or developments, the abstract, thematic meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Bahnhof ist ein zentraler Ausgangspunkt für Reisende.
The train station is a central starting point for travelers.
Compare with
Ausgangspunkt vs Anfang
beginning
'der Anfang' and 'der Ausgangspunkt' can both refer to a start. 'der Anfang' means the first part or the beginning of something. 'der Ausgangspunkt' more specifically means the point from which something starts: this can be a place, but also a basis for a conversation, a plan, or a development. They can be confused because both stand at the beginning. If you mean the first section, use 'Anfang'. If you mean the basis or starting point for something further, 'Ausgangspunkt' is more precise.
Ausgangspunkt
Der Bahnhof ist unser Ausgangspunkt für die Wanderung durch die Stadt.
The train station is our starting point for the walk through the city.
Anfang
Der Anfang des Buches ist ruhig, aber danach wird die Geschichte spannend.
The beginning of the book is calm, but after that the story becomes exciting.
In real life
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