To develop, shape, and fill something with content in its details in order to make it complete or appealing. This can refer to rooms, plans, contracts, or artistic works.
example
Die Wohnung war noch leer, also konnten wir sie ganz nach unseren Wünschen ausgestalten.
The apartment was still empty, so we were able to flesh it out entirely according to our wishes.
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Ausgestalten' (to flesh out/design) is a separable verb. The prefix 'aus-' goes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Die Architektin gestaltet den neuen Eingangsbereich aus.
The architect is designing the new entrance area in detail.
Word structure
The verb consists of the prefix 'aus-' and the verb 'gestalten' (to shape, to design). Here, the prefix 'aus-' strengthens the idea of working on something completely or in detail.
EXAMPLE
Er hat seine Rolle als König auf der Bühne eindrucksvoll ausgestaltet.
He fleshed out his role as king on stage impressively.
Typical objects
You can 'ausgestalten' (flesh out/design) both concrete and abstract things. Typical objects are: a room, a garden, a contract, an idea, a concept, or a role in the theater.
EXAMPLE
Lasst uns gemeinsam das Konzept für das Projekt ausgestalten.
Let's flesh out the concept for the project together.
Register and style
The word is rather formal and elevated. It implies a creative and detailed process that goes beyond simply furnishing or planning something.
EXAMPLE
Die Zeremonie wurde feierlich und würdevoll ausgestaltet.
The ceremony was arranged in a festive and dignified way.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
ausgestalten vs entwickeln
to develop
'entwickeln' and 'ausgestalten' can both mean that you work on an idea, a plan, or a piece of work. 'entwickeln' emphasizes the whole process in which something new comes into being and is worked out step by step. 'ausgestalten' fits better when the basic idea is already there and you fill it with details, content, or a suitable form. That is why the words can be confused, especially with concepts or projects. As a guide: you develop a new idea or solution; you 'gestaltet sie aus' when you make the details more precise.
ausgestalten
Für das Projekt gestaltete sie den Plan mit genauen Aufgaben und Terminen aus.
For the project, she fleshed out the plan with precise tasks and deadlines.
entwickeln
Das Team entwickelt ein neues Konzept für den Unterricht.