development / unfolding
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development
The process by which abilities, personality, or potential develop and fully come into their own.
Die Schule soll ein Ort zur freien Entfaltung der Kinder sein.
School should be a place for the free development of children.
The word comes from the verb 'entfalten' (to unfold / to develop). 'Falten' means to fold something up. The prefix 'ent-' reverses this process. 'Entfaltung' is therefore the 'unfolding'—either literally with a blossom or figuratively with abilities.
Im Frühling entfalten die Bäume ihre Blätter.
In spring, the trees unfold their leaves.
You can tell from the context whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended. If it is about abstract things like 'Persönlichkeit' (personality), 'Talent' (talent), or 'Potenzial' (potential), it refers to development. If it is about concrete objects like 'Blüte' (blossom), 'Schirm' (umbrella/parachute), or 'Karte' (map), it refers to physical opening.
Er braucht Raum für die Entfaltung seiner Kreativität.
He needs space for the development of his creativity.
There are fixed expressions in connection with personal development. When abilities 'zur Entfaltung kommen' (come into full development), they develop fully. When you help someone use their potential, you 'bringt man seine Fähigkeiten zur Entfaltung' (bring their abilities to full development).
In diesem kreativen Umfeld konnte ihr Talent endlich zur Entfaltung kommen.
In this creative environment, her talent was finally able to come into full development.
In the literal meaning, 'Entfaltung' (unfolding) is often combined with things that open slowly and often in a natural way. Typical examples are 'die Entfaltung einer Blüte' (the unfolding of a blossom), 'eines Schmetterlings' (of a butterfly), or 'eines Fächers' (of a fan).
Die Entfaltung des Schmetterlings aus seinem Kokon ist faszinierend.
The unfolding of the butterfly from its cocoon is fascinating.
development
'die Entwicklung' and 'die Entfaltung' both describe a process in which something grows or changes. 'Entwicklung' is more general and fits many topics, for example children, companies, technology, or a situation. 'Entfaltung' sounds more like existing abilities or possibilities becoming visible and being able to show themselves freely. For people, talents, or personality, 'Entfaltung' is often more precise. When speaking neutrally about change or progress, 'Entwicklung' is more natural.
Im neuen Kurs findet Lisa endlich Raum für die Entfaltung ihrer kreativen Ideen.
In the new course, Lisa finally finds space for the development of her creative ideas.
Die Entwicklung des kleinen Unternehmens war in den letzten Jahren sehr positiv.
The development of the small company has been very positive in recent years.