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laufend
ongoing
Describes something that is currently taking place, is current, or is continuing.
example
Die laufenden Kosten für das Projekt sind höher als erwartet.
The ongoing costs for the project are higher than expected.
laufend
ongoing / continual
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Participle as adjective
The word 'laufend' is the present participle of the verb 'laufen' (to run/walk). It describes that something is currently active or continuing, similar to a person who is currently running. This form is often used as an adjective before a noun.
EXAMPLE
Die laufende Ausstellung im Museum ist sehr beliebt.
The ongoing exhibition at the museum is very popular.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'current/ongoing', 'laufend' is often used in business or organizational contexts. Typical combinations are 'laufende Kosten' (ongoing costs), 'ein laufendes Projekt' (an ongoing project), or 'das laufende Geschäftsjahr' (the current fiscal year).
EXAMPLE
Bitte informieren Sie mich über den laufenden Stand des Projekts.
Please inform me about the current status of the project.
Use as an adverb
In the meaning of 'constantly/continually', 'laufend' is often used as an adverb that describes the frequency of an action. It can stand in different positions in the sentence, often directly after the verb or at the beginning of the sentence for emphasis.
EXAMPLE
Wir bekommen laufend neue E-Mails.
We are continually getting new emails.
Context clue
When 'laufend' describes physical movement, it almost always refers to 'laufendes Wasser' (running water) from a tap. This word combination is very fixed and a clear signal for this meaning.
EXAMPLE
Waschen Sie das Gemüse bitte unter laufendem Wasser.
Please wash the vegetables under running water.
Compare with
laufend vs aktuell
current
'aktuell' and 'laufend' can both describe that something is happening right now or applies now. 'aktuell' tends to emphasize that something is relevant or valid at the moment, for example a piece of information or a topic. 'laufend' is especially suitable when something is still in progress and continuing, for example a project, a procedure, or an investigation. In addition, 'laufend' can also mean 'constantly', that is, again and again or without a break. That is why it can be confusing: 'laufende Kosten' are costs that continue to arise regularly; 'aktuelle Kosten' are the costs that apply now or are important right now.
laufend
Im laufenden Kurs haben wir schon viele neue Wörter gelernt.
In the ongoing course, we have already learned many new words.
aktuell
Nach der Arbeit spricht mein Kollege über die aktuellen Änderungen im Dienstplan.
After work, my colleague talks about the current changes to the duty roster.
In real life
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