The entire branch of the economy concerned with the planning, construction, maintenance, and demolition of buildings and structures of all kinds.
example
Die Bauwirtschaft ist ein wichtiger Indikator für die konjunkturelle Entwicklung eines Landes.
The construction industry is an important indicator of a country's economic development.
Usage tips
Compound word
'Bauwirtschaft' (construction industry) is made up of 'der Bau' (construction, from 'bauen' — to build) and 'die Wirtschaft' (economy/industry). The 's' in the middle is a linking s that connects the two parts of the word.
EXAMPLE
Die Bauwirtschaft umfasst alle Unternehmen, die Gebäude errichten oder sanieren.
The construction industry includes all companies that construct or renovate buildings.
Register and style
This word belongs to technical and written language, especially in the fields of economics and politics. It describes the entire sector, not an individual construction site.
EXAMPLE
In den Nachrichten wurde über die aktuelle Lage der Bauwirtschaft berichtet.
The news reported on the current situation in the construction industry.
Typical collocations
Common phrases are 'die Bauwirtschaft boomt' (the construction industry is booming), 'die Bauwirtschaft steckt in der Krise' (the construction industry is in crisis), or 'die Bauwirtschaft ist ein wichtiger Arbeitgeber' (the construction industry is an important employer).
EXAMPLE
Steigende Zinsen können die Bauwirtschaft schwächen.
Rising interest rates can weaken the construction industry.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Bauwirtschaft vs Bauwesen
construction industry
'das Bauwesen' and 'die Bauwirtschaft' both refer to the large field surrounding buildings and structures. The difference lies in the perspective. 'Bauwesen' sounds technical and also includes engineering, planning, regulations, and the maintenance of structures. 'Bauwirtschaft' emphasizes the economic side more: companies, contracts, prices, jobs, and revenue. The words can easily be confused because they often talk about similar topics. When it is about construction as a field of study or expertise, 'Bauwesen' fits better. When it is about the market, the industry, and money, 'Bauwirtschaft' is more precise.
Bauwirtschaft
Wegen der hohen Materialpreise steht die Bauwirtschaft unter Druck.
Because of high material prices, the construction industry is under pressure.
Bauwesen
Mein Bruder studiert Bauwesen und lernt viel über Brücken und Straßen.
My brother is studying civil engineering and learns a lot about bridges and roads.