die Plattform
platform
An elevated, flat structure, for example a train platform, a stage, or a loading ramp.
EXAMPLE
Der Zug nach Hamburg fährt heute von Plattform 7 ab.
The train to Hamburg departs from platform 7 today.
die Plattform
platform
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Meanings
die Plattform
platform
A technical or digital basis that enables certain applications or interactions, e.g. on the internet.
EXAMPLE
YouTube ist die weltweit größte Plattform für Videos.
YouTube is the world's largest platform for videos.
die Plattform
platform / forum
A basis or forum for discussions, the exchange of ideas, or the organization of activities.
EXAMPLE
Die Konferenz soll eine Plattform für den Dialog zwischen Wissenschaft und Politik sein.
The conference is intended to be a platform for dialogue between science and politics.
die Plattform
platform / rig
A large technical installation at sea for extracting oil or natural gas, also called a drilling platform.
EXAMPLE
Der Ingenieur arbeitet für drei Wochen auf einer Plattform in der Nordsee.
The engineer works on a platform in the North Sea for three weeks.
Usage tips
Correct preposition
For all meanings of 'Plattform' (platform), the preposition 'auf' (on) is almost always used to describe a location or a basis.
EXAMPLE
Wir warten auf Plattform 3 auf den Zug.
We're waiting for the train on platform 3.
Digital context clue
You can recognize the digital meaning from words like 'online', 'digital', 'sozial' (social), 'Internet', or 'App'. Here it refers to a technical basis for software or communication.
EXAMPLE
Facebook ist eine soziale Plattform, um mit Menschen in Kontakt zu bleiben.
Facebook is a social platform for staying in contact with people.
Typical collocations
In the figurative sense of 'Forum' (forum), 'Plattform' (platform) is often used with the verbs 'bieten' (to offer/provide) or 'schaffen' (to create). The idea is to create an opportunity for exchange or discussion.
EXAMPLE
Die Tagung bietet eine ideale Plattform für den wissenschaftlichen Austausch.
The conference provides an ideal platform for academic exchange.
Industry context clue
The meaning 'Bohranlage' (drilling rig) becomes clear through the context of the sea, oil, or gas. The word 'Bohrplattform' (drilling platform) is often used.
EXAMPLE
Die Arbeiter fliegen mit dem Helikopter zur Plattform im Meer.
The workers fly by helicopter to the platform at sea.
Compare with
Plattform vs Bühne
stage
Bühne and Plattform can both refer to an opportunity for public presentation. Bühne places more emphasis on visibility before an audience, while Plattform focuses more on the foundation or channel provided. Bühne is usually the better choice for a performance, while Plattform is more suitable for an opportunity to exchange ideas.
Plattform
Die Website bietet jungen Forschern eine Plattform, um ihre Ergebnisse vorzustellen.
The website gives young researchers a platform on which to present their findings.
Bühne
Die Konferenz bietet jungen Forschern eine Bühne, um ihre Ergebnisse vor Publikum zu zeigen.
The conference gives young researchers a stage on which to show their findings to an audience.
In real life
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