rotierend
rotating
Turning around a central point or an axis.
EXAMPLE
Die rotierenden Blätter des Ventilators sorgten für eine kühle Brise.
The rotating blades of the fan created a cool breeze.
rotierend
rotating
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Meanings
rotierend
rotating
Taking place in a regular alternation, in which positions or tasks are passed on according to a schedule.
EXAMPLE
Die Leitung der Arbeitsgruppe wird nach einem rotierenden System vergeben.
The leadership of the working group is assigned according to a rotating system.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Rotierend' (rotating) is the present participle of the verb 'rotieren' (to rotate). Like many present participles, it can be used as an adjective before a noun and then describes an ongoing action or quality.
EXAMPLE
Ein rotierendes Licht auf dem Dach warnte die anderen Autos.
A rotating light on the roof warned the other cars.
Typical collocations
In its physical meaning, 'rotierend' (rotating) is often combined with technical devices or celestial bodies. Typical examples are 'rotierende Klingen' (rotating blades), 'eine rotierende Bürste' (a rotating brush), or 'ein rotierender Planet' (a rotating planet).
EXAMPLE
Die rotierende Scheibe der Säge ist extrem scharf.
The rotating disc of the saw is extremely sharp.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the noun. If 'rotierend' (rotating) refers to abstract terms like 'System' (system), 'Prinzip' (principle), 'Amt' (office), or 'Aufgabe' (task), it means regular alternation, not physical rotation.
EXAMPLE
Die EU-Ratspräsidentschaft wird nach einem rotierenden Prinzip alle sechs Monate neu vergeben.
The EU Council presidency is reassigned every six months according to a rotating principle.
Compare with
rotierend vs abwechselnd
alternating / varied
Both words can describe a regular alternation. „Abwechselnd“ primarily emphasizes that two or more options come one after another, while „rotierend“ additionally highlights the scheduled rotation of tasks or positions. With several participants and fixed responsibilities, „rotierend“ is therefore often the better choice.
rotierend
Die vier Teammitglieder übernehmen rotierend die Moderation der Sitzungen.
The four team members take turns moderating the meetings on a rotating basis.
abwechselnd
Die beiden Sprecher moderieren abwechselnd die Sitzungen.
The two speakers take turns moderating the meetings.
In real life
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