profitable / worthwhile
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profitable
In such a way that it produces a financial profit or return; economically worthwhile or profitable.
Die Investition in Solarenergie hat sich als sehr rentabel erwiesen.
The investment in solar energy has proven to be very profitable.
worthwhile
In a figurative sense: worthwhile or advantageous, even without direct financial profit.
Es ist kaum rentabel, so viel Aufwand für ein Projekt zu betreiben, das niemandem nützt.
It is hardly worthwhile to put so much effort into a project that doesn't benefit anyone.
'Rentabel' means 'profitable' or 'worthwhile'. It is a false friend of the English word 'rentable', which means 'available to rent'.
Dieses Geschäftsmodell ist auf lange Sicht nicht rentabel.
This business model is not profitable in the long run.
The adjective 'rentabel' (profitable/worthwhile) is closely connected with the reflexive verb 'sich rentieren' (to pay off / to be worthwhile). If something 'sich rentiert' (pays off), then it is 'rentabel' (profitable/worthwhile).
Es rentiert sich, frühzeitig in die eigene Altersvorsorge zu investieren.
It pays off to invest early in your own retirement provision.
In an economic context, 'rentabel' (profitable) is often combined with nouns such as 'Investition' (investment), 'Geschäft' (business), 'Projekt' (project), or 'Unternehmen' (company).
Vor dem Start müssen wir prüfen, ob das Projekt überhaupt rentabel ist.
Before we start, we have to check whether the project is profitable at all.
In the figurative meaning, 'rentabel' (worthwhile) is often used for non-financial things such as 'Zeit' (time) or 'Aufwand' (effort). It then describes whether using these resources is worth it.
Es ist nicht rentabel, stundenlang auf eine Antwort zu warten.
It is not worthwhile to wait for hours for an answer.
interesting
An investment can be interesting and profitable when it promises economic benefits. “Interessant” describes broader business appeal, while “rentabel” specifically refers to a financial return in relation to the effort or expense. Use “rentabel” when profit or a worthwhile financial calculation is the main focus.
Die Investition ist rentabel, weil der erwartete Ertrag deutlich über den Kosten liegt.
The investment is profitable because the expected return is significantly higher than the costs.
Die Investition ist interessant, weil sie zu unserem Unternehmen passen könnte.
The investment is interesting because it could be a good fit for our company.
