die Schlachtung
slaughter
The killing of animals, especially livestock, to obtain meat.
EXAMPLE
Der Metzger ist für die fachgerechte Schlachtung der Rinder verantwortlich.
The butcher is responsible for the proper slaughter of the cattle.
die Schlachtung
slaughter
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
die Schlachtung
slaughter / massacre
A brutal and mass killing of people; a massacre.
EXAMPLE
Historische Berichte beschreiben die grausame Schlachtung der Zivilbevölkerung.
Historical accounts describe the cruel slaughter of the civilian population.
Usage tips
Word formation
'Die Schlachtung' (the slaughter) is a noun derived from the verb 'schlachten' (to slaughter). The ending '-ung' is often used to form a feminine noun from a verb that describes the process or result of the action.
EXAMPLE
Die Schlachtung der Tiere unterliegt strengen Vorschriften.
The slaughter of the animals is subject to strict regulations.
Context clue
To distinguish the meanings, pay attention to the context. If it is about animals (pigs, cattle) and meat production, the first meaning is intended. If it is about people in the context of war or violence, the second, figurative meaning (massacre) is intended.
EXAMPLE
Die Schlachtung der Schweine findet im Schlachthof statt.
The slaughter of the pigs takes place in the slaughterhouse.
Register and style
In the meaning 'Massaker' (massacre), 'Schlachtung' (slaughter) is a very strong and emotional word. It is used to emphasize extreme brutality and disregard for human life.
EXAMPLE
Der General war für die sinnlose Schlachtung tausender Soldaten verantwortlich.
The general was responsible for the senseless slaughter of thousands of soldiers.
Compare with
Schlachtung vs Schlacht
battle / slaughter
Both words can refer to the killing of livestock for meat. “Die Schlachtung” is the usual standalone term for this process, whereas “die Schlacht” in this meaning is generally found in compounds such as “Schlachthof”. When used on its own, “Schlachtung” is therefore usually the right choice.
Schlachtung
Die Schlachtung der Rinder findet unter strengen Hygienevorschriften statt.
The slaughter of the cattle takes place under strict hygiene regulations.
Schlacht
Der neue Schlachthof verarbeitet täglich viele Rinder.
The new slaughterhouse processes many cattle every day.
In real life
Loading video examples...