revelation / unveiling
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revelation
The uncovering and public disclosure of previously secret, hidden, or scandalous information or facts.
Die Enthüllungen des Journalisten über den Finanzskandal sorgten für großes Aufsehen.
The journalist's revelations about the financial scandal caused a major stir.
The word comes from the verb 'enthüllen' (to reveal/unveil). The prefix 'ent-' here means 'to take away,' and 'hüllen' means 'to cover.' So an 'Enthüllung' is literally the removal of a covering or veil, either from a secret or from a monument.
Der Journalist will die Wahrheit enthüllen.
The journalist wants to reveal the truth.
The meaning is easy to distinguish: if it is about abstract things like information, secrets, or scandals, it means a revelation or disclosure. If it is about a ceremonial act involving a concrete object like a statue or monument, it means an unveiling ceremony.
Die Enthüllungen über die Affäre schockierten die Öffentlichkeit.
The revelations about the affair shocked the public.
When it is about information, the word is often used in the plural. Typical adjectives are 'skandalöse' (scandalous), 'politische' (political), or 'brisante' (explosive/sensitive) with 'Enthüllungen' (revelations).
Das Buch enthält brisante Enthüllungen über die Regierung.
The book contains explosive revelations about the government.
In a ceremonial context, the word is usually used in the singular. Common combinations are 'die feierliche Enthüllung eines Denkmals' (the ceremonial unveiling of a monument), 'einer Statue' (of a statue), or 'einer Gedenktafel' (of a plaque).
Der Bürgermeister nahm an der Enthüllung der Gedenktafel teil.
The mayor attended the unveiling of the plaque.
publication / release
'Veröffentlichung' and 'Enthüllung' can both mean that something is shown to the public or made known. 'Veröffentlichung' is neutral and fits books, films, music, studies, or other works. 'Enthüllung' is used when something was previously hidden, secret, or covered. This can be secret information, but also a monument that is ceremonially made visible. The words can be confused because in both cases something ends up becoming public. The difference is: 'Veröffentlichung' emphasizes publishing or releasing something, while 'Enthüllung' emphasizes uncovering or making something hidden visible.
Die Enthüllung der geheimen Pläne sorgte in der Firma für große Unruhe.
The revelation of the secret plans caused great unrest in the company.
Im Verlag beginnt heute die Vorbereitung für die Veröffentlichung des neuen Romans.
At the publishing house, preparations for the release of the new novel begin today.