Reformation / reform
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Reformation
The church renewal movement in the 16th century that led to the division of Western Christianity and the emergence of the Protestant churches.
Martin Luther gilt als eine der zentralen Figuren der Reformation.
Martin Luther is considered one of the central figures of the Reformation.
reform
In a general sense, a fundamental restructuring or renewal of an existing system or institution.
Die Partei fordert eine tiefgreifende Reformation des Bildungssystems.
The party is calling for a far-reaching reform of the education system.
'Reformation' belongs to the word family of 'reformieren' (to reform, renew, restructure). The ending '-ation' signals a process or the result of one and makes the word feminine.
Die Regierung plant, das Steuersystem zu reformieren.
The government is planning to reform the tax system.
When 'Reformation' is used in connection with Martin Luther, the church, or the 16th century, it refers to the historical era. In other contexts, such as politics or economics, it means a general, fundamental renewal.
Die Reformation führte zur Gründung neuer Kirchen.
The Reformation led to the founding of new churches.
In the general meaning, 'Reformation' (reform) is often combined with adjectives like 'tiefgreifend' (far-reaching), 'grundlegend' (fundamental), or 'umfassend' (comprehensive) to emphasize the strength of the change.
Experten fordern eine grundlegende Reformation des Gesundheitssystems.
Experts are calling for a fundamental reform of the healthcare system.
reform
Both words can be associated with the fundamental renewal of an institution. In modern usage, „die Reformation“ refers mainly to the church movement of the 16th century, while „die Reform“ is the usual term for planned changes today. „Reform“ is therefore generally used for modern institutions.
Die Reformation der Kirche begann im 16. Jahrhundert und führte zur Entstehung protestantischer Kirchen.
The Reformation of the church began in the 16th century and led to the emergence of Protestant churches.
Die Reform der Kirche soll ihre heutigen Strukturen an neue Bedürfnisse anpassen.
The reform of the church is intended to adapt its current structures to new needs.
