reception
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reception
A social event, often for a formal occasion, where guests are welcomed. Drinks and small snacks are typically served.
Nach der Trauung findet ein kleiner Empfang im Garten statt.
After the wedding ceremony, there will be a small reception in the garden.
'Der Empfang' is the noun related to the verb 'empfangen' (to receive / to welcome). The verb has the inseparable prefix 'emp-' and means 'to receive something' or 'to welcome someone'. This connection helps you understand the different meanings of the noun.
Die Königin empfängt heute Abend wichtige Gäste.
The queen is receiving important guests this evening.
The meaning of 'Empfang' becomes clear through context. If it is about a celebration, it means the event. In a building (hotel, company), it means the desk. In connection with technology (mobile phone, radio), it refers to the signal.
Der Empfang des Brautpaares war sehr emotional.
The reception for the bridal couple was very emotional.
When referring to technical signals, 'Empfang' is often combined with the verb 'haben' (to have). Typical expressions are 'guten Empfang haben' (to have good reception), 'schlechten Empfang haben' (to have bad reception), or 'keinen Empfang haben' (to have no reception).
Fahren wir aus dem Wald, haben wir sicher wieder besseren Empfang.
Once we drive out of the forest, we'll surely have better reception again.
In the meaning of 'receiving', 'Empfang' is mainly used in formal or business language. A very common phrase is 'den Empfang bestätigen' (to confirm receipt).
Wir bitten Sie, den Empfang der Unterlagen schriftlich zu bestätigen.
We ask you to confirm receipt of the documents in writing.
evening
'der Abend' and 'der Empfang' can both refer to a social event. 'der Abend' is more general and often only says that a program or gathering takes place in the evening. 'der Empfang' is more specific: guests are officially welcomed, often on a formal occasion, usually with drinks or small snacks. The words can be confused because an 'Empfang' can take place in the evening. If the type of event is important, 'Empfang' is more precise.
Nach der Preisverleihung gibt es einen Empfang für die Gäste.
After the award ceremony, there will be a reception for the guests.
Der Abend bei der Arbeit beginnt morgen mit einer kurzen Begrüßung.
The evening event at work starts tomorrow with a brief welcome.