vibration / vibe
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vibration / oscillation
A periodic movement around a resting position, as occurs with pendulums, strings, or in electrical engineering; a vibration.
Die Schwingung der Gitarrensaite erzeugt einen hörbaren Ton.
The vibration of the guitar string produces an audible sound.
vibe / atmosphere
A particular mood, atmosphere, or feeling that comes from a place or person. Often used in the plural.
In dem alten Haus herrschten seltsame Schwingungen.
There were strange vibes in the old house.
The word is derived from the verb 'schwingen' (to swing / oscillate). The ending '-ung' forms a noun from a verb and is always feminine, hence 'die Schwingung' (the vibration / oscillation).
Das Pendel einer alten Uhr beginnt zu schwingen.
The pendulum of an old clock begins to swing.
In the singular and in technical contexts (physics, music), it usually refers to the physical movement. In the plural ('Schwingungen') and with adjectives like 'gut' (good) or 'schlecht' (bad), it almost always refers to the figurative meaning of atmosphere.
Die Schwingung der Stimmgabel ist kaum sichtbar.
The vibration of the tuning fork is barely visible.
For the physical meaning, the phrase 'etwas in Schwingung versetzen' (to set something vibrating / in motion) is very typical. It means to start a vibration or oscillation.
Der Wind versetzte die Brücke in leichte Schwingungen.
The wind set the bridge vibrating slightly.
In the figurative meaning, people often speak of 'guten Schwingungen' (good vibes) or 'schlechten Schwingungen' (bad vibes). Here, the word is almost always used in the plural.
Das Team hat einfach gute Schwingungen, alle arbeiten super zusammen.
The team just has good vibes; everyone works really well together.
mood / atmosphere
Die Stimmung and die Schwingung can describe the effect a place or group has on people. Stimmung refers more to the prevailing emotional atmosphere, while Schwingung refers to a subtly perceived aura and is often used in the plural. Stimmung fits a clear, general atmosphere; Schwingung is more appropriate for a subtle impression.
Nach dem Gespräch spürte ich zwischen den beiden eine positive Schwingung.
After the conversation, I sensed a positive vibe between the two of them.
Nach der Ankunft der Gäste war die Stimmung im Raum fröhlich.
After the guests arrived, the mood in the room was cheerful.
