die Spende
donation
A voluntary contribution in the form of money or goods for a charitable, nonprofit, or religious purpose.
EXAMPLE
Jede Spende hilft uns, das Tierheim weiter zu betreiben.
Every donation helps us keep running the animal shelter.
die Spende
donation
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Meanings
die Spende
donation
The voluntary giving of substances or parts of one's own body, such as blood, plasma, or organs, for medical purposes.
EXAMPLE
Die Spende eines Organs kann ein Leben retten.
The donation of an organ can save a life.
Usage tips
Word family
'Die Spende' is the noun for the verb 'spenden' (to donate). While 'spenden' describes the action, 'die Spende' refers to the result—that is, the money, item, or substance that is given.
EXAMPLE
Er spendet regelmäßig für den Tierschutz.
He regularly donates to animal welfare.
Typical verbs
In connection with money or items, 'Spende' is often combined with the verbs 'machen' (to make), 'sammeln' (to collect), or 'bitten' (to ask/request). You can make a donation or ask for a donation.
EXAMPLE
Die Organisation bittet um Spenden für die Opfer der Katastrophe.
The organization is asking for donations for the victims of the disaster.
Correct prepositions
When naming the purpose and recipient of a donation, you typically use 'für' (for) for the purpose and 'an' (to) for the organization.
EXAMPLE
Die Spende ist für ein lokales Umweltprojekt bestimmt.
The donation is intended for a local environmental project.
Medical donations
In the medical field, 'Spende' is often used as part of compound words. The most common are 'die Blutspende' (blood donation), 'die Organspende' (organ donation), and 'die Plasmaspende' (plasma donation).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Unfall war er auf eine Blutspende angewiesen.
After the accident, he depended on a blood donation.
Compare with
Spende vs Opfer
victim / sacrifice
“Opfer” and “Spende” can both refer to a religiously motivated gift. An “Opfer” is presented to a deity in a ritual; a “Spende” voluntarily supports a religious purpose or a recipient.
Spende
Während des Gottesdienstes gab sie eine Spende für die Renovierung der Kirche.
During the service, she made a donation toward renovating the church.
Opfer
Während des Rituals legte sie ihr Opfer auf den Altar.
During the ritual, she placed her offering on the altar.
In real life
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