fermentation / unrest
Loading your saved state.
fermentation
A biochemical process in which organic substances are transformed, usually by microorganisms such as yeasts or bacteria. This process is central to the production of alcohol, bread, or sauerkraut.
Bei der Herstellung von Wein wird der Zucker der Trauben durch Gärung in Alkohol umgewandelt.
In the production of wine, the sugar in the grapes is converted into alcohol through fermentation.
unrest
A state of political or social unrest and turmoil in a group or society that suggests upcoming changes.
Nach der umstrittenen Entscheidung befand sich die Partei in einem Zustand der Gärung.
After the controversial decision, the party was in a state of unrest.
'Die Gärung' (fermentation) is the nominalization of the verb 'gären' (to ferment). The ending '-ung' turns the action into a process or state, similar to 'warnen' (to warn) → 'die Warnung' (the warning).
Der Teig muss eine Stunde gären, bevor er gebacken wird.
The dough has to ferment for an hour before it is baked.
In a biochemical context, people often speak of 'alkoholische Gärung' (alcoholic fermentation). Typical verbs are 'einsetzen' (to begin) or 'stoppen' (to stop) when describing the process.
Die Gärung setzt ein, sobald die Hefe zum Teig gegeben wird.
Fermentation begins as soon as the yeast is added to the dough.
The political meaning is a metaphor. Just as something 'bubbles' and changes during 'Gärung' (fermentation), the word is used to describe a restless, tense social or political mood before a change.
In der Bevölkerung herrschte eine spürbare Gärung vor der Wahl.
There was noticeable unrest among the population before the election.
In the figurative meaning, 'Gärung' (unrest) is often used with verbs of state. Typical phrases are 'in Gärung sein' (to be in a state of unrest), 'in Gärung geraten' (to fall into unrest), or 'ein Zustand der Gärung' (a state of unrest).
Nach dem Skandal befand sich die Regierung in einem Zustand der Gärung.
After the scandal, the government was in a state of unrest.
unrest
Unruhe generally describes political or social disturbance. Gärung emphasizes more strongly that this unrest is gradually increasing and points to possible changes. Use Unruhe for the existing disturbance and Gärung when its development is the main focus.
In der Bevölkerung war eine zunehmende Gärung zu spüren, die Veränderungen erwarten ließ.
A growing sense of unrest could be felt among the population, suggesting that changes were likely.
Nach der umstrittenen Entscheidung breitete sich im Land große Unruhe aus.
The controversial decision caused widespread unrest throughout the country.
