testing / trial
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testing
The systematic testing or trying out of something new in order to check its function, safety, or suitability.
Das neue Medikament befindet sich noch in der klinischen Erprobung.
The new medication is still in clinical testing.
'Die Erprobung' (testing/trial) is the nominalization of the verb 'erproben' (to test/try out). The ending '-ung' turns the verb into a feminine noun that describes the process or result of testing.
Die Erprobung der neuen Brücke dauerte mehrere Monate.
The testing of the new bridge took several months.
In technical or scientific contexts, 'Erprobung' (testing) is often used with certain phrases, e.g. 'in der klinischen Erprobung sein' (to be in clinical testing), 'die Erprobung eines Prototyps' (the testing of a prototype), or 'sich in der Erprobung befinden' (to be undergoing testing).
Die neue Software befindet sich noch in der Erprobung.
The new software is still undergoing testing.
You can often recognize the figurative meaning as a 'test of character' from adjectives such as 'hart' (hard/harsh), 'schwer' (difficult), or 'persönlich' (personal). It refers to immaterial things like courage, patience, or friendship.
Die Zeit im Ausland war eine harte Erprobung für ihre Beziehung.
The time abroad was a harsh trial for their relationship.
attempt / experiment
'der Versuch' and 'die Erprobung' both have to do with trying things out and testing. 'der Versuch' is more general: you try something without knowing for sure whether it will work. This can happen in everyday life or in science as an experiment. 'die Erprobung' sounds more planned and technical. It is often used when a new device, process, or product is being tested systematically. Learners may confuse the words because both can refer to testing. As a simple guide: a 'Versuch' can also be spontaneous, while an 'Erprobung' is usually organized and checks whether something is truly suitable.
Vor dem Verkauf beginnt die Erprobung des neuen Fahrrads auf verschiedenen Straßen.
Before the sale, testing of the new bicycle begins on different roads.
Mein erster Versuch, den alten Drucker zu reparieren, ist leider gescheitert.
My first attempt to repair the old printer unfortunately failed.