test bench
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test bench
A technical system or device in which machines, engines, vehicles, or components are tested under controlled conditions for their function, performance, and durability.
Der neue Flugzeugmotor wird auf dem Prüfstand extremen Belastungen ausgesetzt.
The new aircraft engine is exposed to extreme loads on the test bench.
The word is made up of 'Prüf-' (from the verb 'prüfen', to test/check) and 'Stand' (stand). So it literally describes a place or device where something is tested.
Jedes neue Automodell muss auf dem Prüfstand seine Sicherheit beweisen.
Every new car model has to prove its safety on the test bench.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about technical devices such as engines or vehicles, the literal meaning is intended. If it is about abstract things like a relationship, strategy, or friendship, the figurative meaning is intended.
Der neue Motor wurde auf dem Prüfstand getestet.
The new engine was tested on the test bench.
In the figurative meaning, the word is almost always used in two fixed expressions: 'etwas auf den Prüfstand stellen' (to put something to the test / examine something critically) and 'auf dem Prüfstand stehen' (to be put to the test / be under review).
Die Firma stellt ihre bisherige Marketingstrategie auf den Prüfstand.
The company is putting its previous marketing strategy to the test.
exam / inspection
'die Prüfung' and 'der Prüfstand' are both connected to testing and careful inspection. 'die Prüfung' names the test or inspection itself. In the technical sense, 'der Prüfstand' is a place or system where, for example, an engine is tested. In the phrase 'auf dem Prüfstand stehen' (to be put to the test), 'Prüfstand' also means a critical examination of ideas, plans, or people. The words can be confused because both have to do with testing. In practice: die Prüfung is the process, while der Prüfstand is often the place or a figurative stress test.
Der neue Motor läuft seit dem Morgen auf dem Prüfstand.
The new engine has been running on the test bench since this morning.
Die Prüfung der Maschine dauert heute länger als geplant.
The inspection of the machine is taking longer than planned today.