permanent / open-ended
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permanent
Without a time limit; valid for an indefinite period. Mostly used for employment contracts.
Nach der Probezeit erhielt sie einen unbefristeten Arbeitsvertrag.
After the probationary period, she received a permanent employment contract.
The word is made up of three parts: the prefix 'un-' (not), the word stem of 'Frist' (time limit/deadline), and the adjective ending. 'Befristet' means 'limited in time', and 'unbefristet' is the exact opposite: 'without a time limit'.
Ein unbefristeter Vertrag gibt dem Arbeitnehmer mehr Sicherheit.
A permanent contract gives the employee more security.
This adjective is most commonly used in a professional context. The most important combination is 'unbefristeter Arbeitsvertrag' (permanent employment contract). Other typical nouns are 'Stelle' (position), 'Anstellung' (employment), or also 'Mietvertrag' (rental agreement/lease).
Nach der Probezeit hofft sie auf eine unbefristete Anstellung.
After the probationary period, she hopes for permanent employment.
The word 'unbefristet' belongs to formal administrative and business language. You find it especially in contracts, official documents, and employment law.
Die Aufenthaltserlaubnis ist unbefristet gültig.
The residence permit is valid indefinitely.
permanent / lasting
Both words can express that something is more than just temporary. „Dauerhaft“ generally describes a long-lasting or permanent quality, while „unbefristet“ specifically refers to a contract having no time limit. „Unbefristet“ is therefore usually the right choice for an employment contract, while „dauerhaft“ is used for other long-term conditions.
Nach der Probezeit bekam sie einen unbefristeten Arbeitsvertrag.
After the probationary period, she received an open-ended employment contract.
Nach mehreren Jahren suchte sie eine dauerhafte Lösung für ihre Wohnsituation.
After several years, she looked for a lasting solution to her housing situation.
