A part, section, or division of something larger, especially in an organizational, technical, or musical context. The word is a rare Anglicism for 'Sektion' (section) or 'Abteilung' (department/division).
example
Die Rhythmus-Section der Band besteht aus Schlagzeug und Bass.
The rhythm section of the band consists of drums and bass.
Usage tips
Rare Anglicism
The word 'Section' is an Anglicism that is used in German only in very specific specialized contexts. In general usage it is uncommon and is often perceived as a foreign word.
EXAMPLE
Die Bläser-Section hat ihren Einsatz verpasst.
The horn section missed its cue.
Context clue
You can tell from the context whether a division or a medical procedure is meant. Terms like 'Band' (band) or 'Orchester' (orchestra) point to a musical section, while a hospital context points to a C-section.
EXAMPLE
Die Rhythmus-Section probt heute länger.
The rhythm section is rehearsing longer today.
Use in music
In the meaning of 'Abschnitt' (section), the word is used almost exclusively in musical contexts, especially for parts of a band or orchestra. A typical collocation is 'Rhythmus-Section' (rhythm section).
EXAMPLE
Die Horn-Section des Orchesters spielte fehlerfrei.
The horn section of the orchestra played flawlessly.
Compare with
near_synonym
Section vs Teil
part
'der Teil' and 'die Section' can both mean a section of something larger. 'der Teil' is the normal German word and fits in almost all everyday situations: with texts, objects, groups, or plans. 'die Section' is a rare Anglicism and sounds much more specialized. You are more likely to find it in technical, organizational, or musical contexts, often when English terms are common in that environment. For learners, the important point is: if there is no special technical or English-language context, 'der Teil' is almost always more natural.
Section
Auf der Webseite steht die Anmeldung in der Section für neue Mitglieder.
On the website, registration is in the section for new members.
Teil
Der letzte Teil des Films war besonders spannend.
The last part of the film was especially exciting.