spot
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commercial
A short advertisement on television, in the cinema, or on the internet, or a short advertising segment on the radio.
In der Halbzeitpause wurden mehrere Spots für neue Autos gezeigt.
During the halftime break, several commercials for new cars were shown.
You can recognize the meaning of 'Spot' (spot/commercial/spotlight) from the context. In connection with media (television, radio), it means an advertisement. If it is about light or a stage, it means a spotlight. If people are talking about places for activities like surfing or skating, it means a special place.
Vor dem Hauptfilm liefen drei Spots.
Before the main film, three commercials ran.
'Der Spot' (spot/commercial/spotlight) is a loanword from English. In German, it has taken on several meanings of the English word 'spot', for example for an advertising spot, a point of light, or a specific place.
Dieser Strand ist ein beliebter Spot für Kitesurfer.
This beach is a popular spot for kitesurfers.
When 'Spot' means a commercial, it is often used with verbs like 'ausstrahlen' (to broadcast), 'senden' (to air/send), 'zeigen' (to show), or 'schalten' (to place/run).
Der Radiosender strahlt den Spot mehrmals pro Stunde aus.
The radio station broadcasts the commercial several times an hour.
In the meaning of 'Ort' (place), 'Spot' is often used in youth language or scene-specific slang. Typical combinations are 'Surf-Spot' (surf spot), 'Skate-Spot' (skate spot), or 'Geheim-Spot' (secret spot).
Hinter dem alten Bahnhof gibt es einen guten Skate-Spot.
Behind the old train station, there is a good skate spot.
place / space
'der Platz' and 'der Spot' can both mean a place for a specific activity. 'Platz' is the normal German word and is very general: a seat, a sports field or court, or a place where there is enough room. 'Spot' is more modern and more specific. It is often used for a place that is known for a particular scene or activity, for example a good 'Surfspot' (surf spot) or 'Fotospot' (photo spot). The words can be confused because both can refer to a spot or location. If it is simply about space or an intended place, 'Platz' sounds more natural; if you mean a special place for an activity, 'Spot' is more suitable.
Dieser Hügel ist ein beliebter Spot für Fotos bei Sonnenuntergang.
This hill is a popular spot for sunset photos.
Im Zug findet die Chefin vor dem Termin noch einen freien Platz.
On the train, the boss finds a free seat before the appointment.