preservation
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preservation
The preservation of something in its existing condition, especially cultural monuments, works of art, or nature.
Die Erhaltung der historischen Altstadt kostet viel Geld.
The preservation of the historic old town costs a lot of money.
The noun 'Erhaltung' (preservation) is derived from the verb 'erhalten' (to preserve/maintain). The ending '-ung' forms nouns from verbs, and these nouns are always feminine ('die'). The word describes the process or result of preserving something.
Die Erhaltung alter Bücher ist eine wichtige Aufgabe für Bibliotheken.
The preservation of old books is an important task for libraries.
'Die Erhaltung' is often used with a genitive object to say what is being preserved. Alternatively, the preposition 'von' with the dative can also be used.
Der Verein setzt sich für die Erhaltung des alten Schlosses ein.
The association is committed to the preservation of the old castle.
While the verb 'erhalten' can also mean 'bekommen' (to receive), the noun 'die Erhaltung' refers exclusively to the meaning 'bewahren' (to preserve) or 'aufrechterhalten' (to maintain). So it is always about preserving a condition.
Die Erhaltung des Friedens hat oberste Priorität.
The preservation of peace has top priority.
The word 'Erhaltung' belongs more to written language and is often used in formal, official, or academic contexts. It is frequently found in texts about monument preservation, nature, or technology.
Die Gemeinde hat neue Richtlinien zur Erhaltung der Grünflächen erlassen.
The municipality has issued new guidelines for the preservation of green spaces.
protection
'der Schutz' and 'die Erhaltung' can both mean that something is not lost or damaged. However, 'Schutz' emphasizes an external danger: something is meant to be protected from harm, destruction, or negative influences. 'Erhaltung' emphasizes the condition over a longer period of time: something is meant to remain as it is, for example a monument, a work of art, or nature. Learners may confuse the words, especially when talking about nature and culture. 'Schutz' fits better when a danger is being warded off; 'Erhaltung' fits better when care and preservation are the focus.
Die Stadt gibt viel Geld für die Erhaltung der alten Brücke aus.
The city spends a lot of money on preserving the old bridge.
Der Wald steht unter Schutz, weil dort seltene Vögel leben.
The forest is protected because rare birds live there.