processor / editor
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case worker
A person responsible for processing a specific task, application, or case, often in an administrative or bureaucratic context.
Der zuständige Bearbeiter bei der Behörde hat meinen Antrag genehmigt.
The responsible case worker at the government office approved my application.
editor / adapter
A person who revises, adapts, or edits an existing work, for example a text or a musical composition, for a new version.
Der Bearbeiter hat den alten Roman für eine moderne Leserschaft gekürzt und sprachlich angepasst.
The editor shortened the old novel for a modern readership and adapted the language.
'Der Bearbeiter' (processor / editor) is derived from the verb 'bearbeiten' (to process / edit). The ending '-er' turns the verb into a person who performs the action — that is, someone who 'bearbeitet' (processes/edits) something.
Wer bearbeitet hier die eingehenden E-Mails?
Who processes the incoming emails here?
To distinguish the two meanings, pay attention to the context. If it is about an 'Antrag' (application), 'Fall' (case), or 'Vorgang' (procedure/file) in a government office or company, the administrative employee is meant. If it is about a 'Buch' (book), 'Lied' (song), or 'Manuskript' (manuscript), the creative or academic editor/adaptor is meant.
Der Bearbeiter meines Visumantrags ist heute leider nicht im Büro.
The case worker for my visa application is unfortunately not in the office today.
In the administrative meaning, 'Bearbeiter' (case worker / processor) is a typical word of office and bureaucratic language. It sounds formal and is often used to clearly define responsibilities.
Bitte wenden Sie sich an den zuständigen Bearbeiter in der Personalabteilung.
Please contact the responsible case worker in the HR department.
editor / issuer
For a new edition, the Herausgeber is responsible for the content and publication of the edition as a whole. The Bearbeiter, by contrast, works directly on the existing work and changes or edits it for the new version. Both may be involved in the same edition, but they have different roles.
Der Bearbeiter überarbeitet den bestehenden Text für die neue Goethe-Ausgabe.
The reviser edits the existing text for the new Goethe edition.
Der Herausgeber verantwortet die inhaltliche Gestaltung und Veröffentlichung der neuen Goethe-Ausgabe.
The editor is responsible for the content and publication of the new Goethe edition.
