das Profil
profile
The view of a person or object from the side.
EXAMPLE
Der Künstler zeichnete ein Porträt von ihr im Profil.
The artist drew a portrait of her in profile.
das Profil
profile
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Meanings
das Profil
profile
A collection of data, characteristics, and information about a person, often on social networks or for job applications.
EXAMPLE
Bitte aktualisieren Sie Ihr Profil mit einem aktuellen Foto.
Please update your profile with a recent photo.
das Profil
profile
The characteristic structure or special skills and areas of focus of a person, company, or institution.
EXAMPLE
Die Schule hat ein naturwissenschaftliches Profil.
The school has a science-focused profile.
das Profil
tread
The grooves and indentations on the running surface of a tire that provide grip on the road.
EXAMPLE
Die Winterreifen haben nicht mehr genug Profil und müssen ersetzt werden.
The winter tires no longer have enough tread and need to be replaced.
das Profil
profile
A long, shaped component made of metal or plastic that is used in construction or industry.
EXAMPLE
Für den Fensterrahmen benötigen wir ein spezielles Aluminiumprofil.
We need a special aluminum profile for the window frame.
Usage tips
Fixed expression
To describe the side view of a person or object, the fixed expression 'im Profil' (in profile) is almost always used.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Passfoto muss man von vorne zu sehen sein, nicht im Profil.
In a passport photo, you have to be seen from the front, not in profile.
Typical collocations
In digital contexts (social media, websites), 'Profil' (profile) is often combined with the verbs 'erstellen' (to create), 'anlegen' (to set up), 'aktualisieren' (to update), or 'löschen' (to delete).
EXAMPLE
Für die neue App musste ich ein Benutzerprofil anlegen.
I had to set up a user profile for the new app.
Abstract meaning
When referring to the characteristic features of a person or institution, 'Profil' (profile) is often used with verbs such as 'zeigen' (to show), 'schärfen' (to sharpen), or 'entwickeln' (to develop).
EXAMPLE
Mit diesem Projekt kann die Firma ihr soziales Profil schärfen.
With this project, the company can sharpen its social profile.
Context clue: tires
In the context of vehicles, especially cars and bicycles, 'Profil' (tread) always refers to the grooves on the tires. Another typical word is 'Reifenprofil' (tire tread).
EXAMPLE
Bei Regen ist es gefährlich, mit abgefahrenem Profil zu fahren.
In the rain, it is dangerous to drive with worn-down tread.
Context clue: construction and technology
In construction or technology, a 'Profil' (profile) is a long, shaped component. The material is usually mentioned, e.g. 'Aluminiumprofil' (aluminum profile) or 'Stahlprofil' (steel profile).
EXAMPLE
Wir brauchen für die Decke noch einige Stahlprofile.
We still need several steel profiles for the ceiling.
Compare with
Profil vs Kanal
canal / channel
Profil and Kanal can both be part of a social media presence. A Profil mainly shows a user's information and characteristics. A Kanal serves as a means of transmitting published content and therefore focuses on posts or programs.
Profil
Auf ihrem Profil nennt Mira ihren Beruf und ihre Interessen.
On her profile, Mira lists her job and interests.
Kanal
Auf ihrem Kanal veröffentlicht Mira jede Woche ein neues Kochvideo.
Mira posts a new cooking video on her channel every week.
In real life
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