added value / surplus value
der Mehrwert
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added value
The additional benefit or value that a product, service, or improvement offers compared with the original state or an alternative.
Die persönliche Beratung bietet einen echten Mehrwert gegenüber dem reinen Online-Kauf.
Personal consultation offers real added value compared with a purely online purchase.
VAT
Short for value-added tax (VAT); a tax levied on the sale of goods and services.
Alle Preise verstehen sich zuzüglich des gesetzlichen Mehrwerts.
All prices are subject to statutory VAT.
surplus value
In Marxist economic theory, the value that labor power creates beyond the cost of its own reproduction and that is appropriated by the capitalist as profit.
Die Theorie des Mehrwerts ist ein zentraler Bestandteil von Karl Marx' Kapitalismuskritik.
The theory of surplus value is a central component of Karl Marx's critique of capitalism.
| gender | masculine der |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Mehrwertes |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | der Mehrwert | – |
| accusative | den Mehrwert | – |
| dative | dem Mehrwert | – |
| genitive | des Mehrwertes des Mehrwerts | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
The word is a clear compound of 'mehr' (more) and 'Wert' (value). So it literally describes a value that goes beyond what is normal or original.
Diese neue Funktion bietet einen großen Mehrwert für die Nutzer.
This new feature offers great added value for users.
In the meaning 'additional benefit', the word is often used with the verbs 'bieten' (to offer) or 'schaffen' (to create). Typical adjectives are 'echt' (real), 'groß' (great), or 'erheblich' (substantial).
Wir müssen eine Lösung finden, die unseren Kunden einen echten Mehrwert schafft.
We need to find a solution that creates real added value for our customers.
When 'Mehrwert' (VAT) appears in the context of prices, invoices, or finances, it almost always refers to value-added tax. Watch for signal words such as 'zuzüglich' (plus; zzgl.), 'inklusive' (including; inkl.), or 'gesetzlich' (statutory).
Der angegebene Preis ist zuzüglich 19 % Mehrwert.
The stated price is plus 19% VAT.
This meaning is a technical term from economic theory and philosophy. It is used almost exclusively in academic or political discussions about Marxism and capitalism.
In seinem Seminar analysierte der Professor die Entstehung des Mehrwerts in der Produktion.
In his seminar, the professor analyzed the creation of surplus value in production.
to use / benefit
Nutzen and Mehrwert can both describe what something provides. Nutzen is more general and refers to a practical advantage or a helpful use. Mehrwert, on the other hand, emphasizes the additional value compared with an initial state or an alternative. Use „nutzen“ in general, and „Mehrwert“ when making a specific comparison.
Der Mehrwert der neuen App liegt im automatischen Abgleich mit dem Kalender.
The added value of the new app lies in its automatic synchronization with the calendar.
Wir nutzen die App, um unsere Termine besser zu organisieren.
We use the app to organize our appointments more effectively.
