formulation / compounding
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formulation
An exact instruction or formula for the composition of a mixture of substances, precisely specifying the ingredients and their proportions. The term is used especially in pharmacy, chemistry, and cosmetics.
Der Apotheker mischte die Salbe genau nach der ärztlichen Rezeptur.
The pharmacist mixed the ointment exactly according to the doctor's formulation.
Careful: 'Rezeptur' is normally not the English 'recipe' for cooking. A 'Rezeptur' (formulation) is an exact, professional formula in pharmacy or chemistry. For a cooking recipe, you use the German word 'das Rezept' (recipe).
Ich habe ein tolles Rezept für einen Schokoladenkuchen gefunden.
I found a great recipe for a chocolate cake.
You can distinguish the two meanings well from context. If someone talks about working 'in der Rezeptur' (in compounding), the work area in the pharmacy is meant. If someone talks about making something 'nach einer Rezeptur' (according to a formulation), the formula is meant.
Der Apotheker arbeitet in der Rezeptur.
The pharmacist works in compounding.
In the meaning 'Formel' (formula), 'Rezeptur' (formulation) is a technical term. It is used especially in pharmacy, chemistry, cosmetics, or food technology for an exactly defined composition.
Die genaue Rezeptur des Getränks ist ein gut gehütetes Geheimnis.
The exact formulation of the drink is a well-kept secret.
formula
'die Formel' and 'die Rezeptur' can both mean precise instructions for the composition of something. 'Formel' is more general and can also occur in other fields. 'Rezeptur' is used mainly when ingredients or substances are mixed in exact amounts, especially in pharmacy, chemistry, or cosmetics. Learners may confuse the words because both describe something precise and fixed. For a cream, ointment, or medicine, 'Rezeptur' sounds more natural. 'Formel' is a better fit in a more general sense or when referring to fixed production instructions.
Die Apothekerin prüft die Rezeptur der Salbe sehr genau.
The pharmacist checks the formulation of the ointment very carefully.
Die Firma hat die Formel für die Babynahrung verändert.
The company changed the formula for the baby food.