extent
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extent
The scope, size, or significance of something, often in connection with negative events such as damage or problems.
Das ganze Ausmass der Überschwemmung wurde erst bei Tageslicht sichtbar.
The full extent of the flooding only became visible in daylight.
The word 'Ausmass' (extent) is made up of 'aus' and 'Mass' (measure). 'Das Mass' means 'the measurement' or 'the size.' So 'Ausmass' describes the outer, total size or full scope of something.
Niemand hatte mit einem Erfolg dieses Ausmasses gerechnet.
No one had expected a success of this extent.
'Ausmass' (extent) is very often used in connection with negative events. Typical combinations are 'das Ausmass des Schadens' (the extent of the damage), 'das Ausmass der Zerstörung' (the extent of the destruction), or 'das Ausmass der Krise' (the extent of the crisis).
Erst nach dem Sturm wurde das ganze Ausmass der Zerstörung klar.
Only after the storm did the full extent of the destruction become clear.
To specify what the extent refers to, a noun in the genitive often follows. The fixed phrase 'das ganze Ausmass' (the full extent) is also very common.
Das Ausmass der Umweltverschmutzung ist erschreckend.
The extent of the environmental pollution is alarming.
scope / circumference
„Umfang“ and „Ausmass“ can both describe the size of damage. „Umfang“ focuses more on the measurable or definable scope, while „Ausmass“ also emphasizes the damage’s severity and consequences. Use „Umfang“ for concrete boundaries and „Ausmass“ for the damage’s overall significance.
Erst nach der Untersuchung erkennen die Helfer das ganze Ausmass der Schäden.
Only after the investigation do the helpers realize the full extent of the damage.
Die Helfer messen den Umfang des Schadens an den beschädigten Häusern genau.
The helpers carefully measure the extent of the damage to the affected houses.
