An artistic or entertaining performance in front of an audience, for example a piece of music, a play, or a dance performance.
example
Die akrobatische Darbietung im Zirkus war atemberaubend.
The acrobatic performance at the circus was breathtaking.
Usage tips
Word formation
The noun 'die Darbietung' (performance/presentation) is derived from the separable verb 'darbieten' (to present/perform). 'Bieten' means 'anbieten' (to offer), and the prefix 'dar-' reinforces the idea of presenting or performing for an audience.
EXAMPLE
Die Sängerin wird heute Abend einige neue Lieder darbieten.
The singer will perform some new songs this evening.
Context clue
The context makes the meaning clear. If it is about art, music, or theater, it means an artistic performance. If it is about information, data, or facts, it means the way something is presented.
EXAMPLE
Die musikalische Darbietung der Band war fantastisch.
The band's musical performance was fantastic.
Register and style
The word 'Darbietung' (performance/presentation) sounds rather formal. It is often found in programs, reviews, or official announcements.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Programm steht eine Darbietung klassischer Tänze.
The program includes a performance of classical dances.
Typical collocations
In the context of an artistic performance, 'Darbietung' (performance) is often combined with adjectives that evaluate quality, e.g., 'eine beeindruckende' (an impressive), 'eine gelungene' (a successful), or 'eine schwache Darbietung' (a weak performance).
EXAMPLE
Die Zuschauer applaudierten nach der beeindruckenden Darbietung des Pianisten.
The audience applauded after the pianist's impressive performance.
Typical collocations
When it is about the presentation of information, typical adjectives describe the structure and comprehensibility, e.g., 'eine klare' (a clear), 'eine übersichtliche' (a well-structured), or 'eine detaillierte Darbietung' (a detailed presentation).
EXAMPLE
Für die Präsentation wünsche ich mir eine klare Darbietung der wichtigsten Fakten.
For the presentation, I would like a clear presentation of the most important facts.
Compare with
near_synonym
Darbietung vs Spiel
game / play
'das Spiel' and 'die Darbietung' can both describe something shown in front of an audience. 'das Spiel' is especially about the acting performance, that is, how someone plays a role. 'die Darbietung' is broader and means an artistic or entertaining performance, for example music, dance, or theater. If you are talking about acting, 'Spiel' is more precise. If you are talking generally about what is shown to the audience, 'Darbietung' fits better.
Darbietung
Die Darbietung der Tanzgruppe bekam langen Applaus.
The dance group's performance received long applause.
Spiel
Das ruhige Spiel des Schauspielers machte die Szene sehr traurig.
The actor's calm performance made the scene very sad.