01
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
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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
'das Profil' and 'der Kanal' can both occur on the internet or in social media. 'Das Profil' refers to the page or collection of information about a person or company, for example their name, photo, profession, and posts. 'Der Kanal' refers more to the place or route through which content is regularly published, for example videos, messages, or broadcasts. The words can be confused because a social media channel often also has a profile. As a simple guide: A profile shows who someone is. A channel shows what someone regularly broadcasts or publishes content about.
Profil
Für die Bewerbung aktualisiert Lisa ihr Profil mit einem neuen Foto.
For the job application, Lisa updates her profile with a new photo.
Kanal
Der Koch erklärt auf seinem Kanal jede Woche ein neues Rezept.
The cook explains a new recipe every week on his channel.
In real life
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