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.
'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.
revolution
'die Revolution' and 'die Reformation' can both describe a fundamental change in a system. 'die Revolution' is usually more radical and can mean that the old order is overthrown or replaced very quickly. 'die Reformation' more often means a renewal or restructuring of an existing system. The historical meaning is especially important: 'die Reformation' refers to the 16th-century church movement. The words can be confused because both refer to major changes and sound similar. When it is about an overthrow, 'Revolution' fits better; when it is about church renewal or systematic renewal, 'Reformation' fits better.
Im Geschichtsunterricht spricht Laura über die Reformation und Martin Luther.
In history class, Laura talks about the Reformation and Martin Luther.
Die Erfindung des Buchdrucks war eine Revolution für die Verbreitung von Wissen.
The invention of the printing press was a revolution in the spread of knowledge.