01
die Demontage
dismantling
The process in which a machine, system, or structure is taken apart into its individual components.
example
Die Demontage des alten Krans dauerte mehrere Tage.
The dismantling of the old crane took several days.
die Demontage
dismantling / takedown
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Demontage' (dismantling) is the opposite of 'Montage' (assembly). The prefix 'de-' here means 'away' or 'un-'. This logic of taking apart applies both to technical devices and to a person's reputation.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Montage der neuen Küche folgte die Demontage der alten.
After the assembly of the new kitchen came the dismantling of the old one.
Word family
The noun 'die Demontage' (dismantling) describes the process or result of the action expressed by the verb 'demontieren' (to dismantle).
EXAMPLE
Der Mechaniker wird den Motor morgen demontieren.
The mechanic will dismantle the engine tomorrow.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the object: If it is about physical things like machines, furniture, or industrial facilities, the literal meaning is intended. If it is about abstract things like reputation, standing, power, or a myth, the figurative meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Die Demontage des Gerüsts beginnt nächste Woche.
The dismantling of the scaffolding begins next week.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, the word is often combined with adjectives such as 'öffentlich' (public) or 'politisch' (political). For example, people speak of the 'öffentliche Demontage eines Stars' (public takedown of a star) or the 'politische Demontage eines Gegners' (political takedown of an opponent).
EXAMPLE
Die Presse betrieb die systematische Demontage des Ministers.
The press carried out the systematic takedown of the minister.
Compare with
Demontage vs Ausbau
expansion / removal
'der Ausbau' and 'die Demontage' can both mean that something is removed from a machine, system, or structure. 'der Ausbau' often means taking out a specific component, for example a battery or an engine. 'die Demontage' is usually broader: a machine or structure is taken apart into individual parts. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with removing and taking things apart. If only one part is being taken out, 'Ausbau' often fits. If the whole thing is being dismantled, 'Demontage' is more precise.
Demontage
Omar hilft in der Werkstatt bei der Demontage der alten Maschine.
Omar helps in the workshop with dismantling the old machine.
Ausbau
Vor der Reparatur ist der Ausbau der alten Batterie nötig.
Before the repair, the old battery has to be removed.
In real life
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