01
die Verkleinerung
reduction in size
The process of making something smaller in its physical dimensions.
example
Die Verkleinerung des Fotos für den Ausweis war notwendig.
The reduction in size of the photo for the ID card was necessary.
die Verkleinerung
reduction / diminutive
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word formation
'Verkleinerung' is a noun derived from the verb 'verkleinern' (to make smaller/reduce). The ending '-ung' is often used to form a noun from a verb that describes the process or result of the action.
EXAMPLE
Die Verkleinerung des Gartens schafft Platz für eine Terrasse.
The reduction in size of the garden creates space for a terrace.
Context clue
You can recognize which meaning is intended from the context. With objects like 'Foto' (photo) or 'Modell' (model), it is about physical size. With terms like 'Belegschaft' (workforce) or 'Budget' (budget), it is about a reduction in number or scope. In connection with language and words, the grammatical form is meant.
EXAMPLE
Die Verkleinerung des Plans auf A4-Format ist einfach.
The reduction of the plan to A4 format is easy.
Typical collocations
In this meaning, the word is often used in an economic or organizational context. Typical combinations are 'Verkleinerung des Teams' (reduction of the team), 'Verkleinerung des Sortiments' (reduction of the product range), or 'Verkleinerung des Defizits' (reduction of the deficit).
EXAMPLE
Die Verkleinerung des Personals soll Kosten sparen.
The reduction of staff is intended to save costs.
Technical grammar term
In this meaning, 'Verkleinerung' is a technical term from linguistics. It describes a word-formation form that is also known as 'Diminutiv' (diminutive).
EXAMPLE
Die Endungen -chen und -lein dienen im Deutschen zur Verkleinerung.
The endings -chen and -lein are used in German to form diminutives.
Compare with
Verkleinerung vs Einschränkung
restriction / qualification
'Einschränkung' and 'Verkleinerung' can both express that something becomes less or smaller. 'Verkleinerung' is used when the size, number, or scope of something is reduced, for example with a picture, a team, or a budget. 'Einschränkung' more often describes that possibilities or freedom are limited. The words can be confused because a 'Verkleinerung' often leads to restrictions. But 'Verkleinerung' says what happens to the size; 'Einschränkung' says what is no longer possible as a result.
Verkleinerung
Die Verkleinerung des Teams macht die Planung schwieriger.
The reduction in the size of the team makes planning more difficult.
Einschränkung
Im Zug ist die Einschränkung beim Gepäck deutlich zu spüren.
On the train, the baggage restriction is clearly noticeable.
In real life
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