reproduction / increase
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reproduction
The process by which living beings such as plants, animals, or microorganisms reproduce and increase in number.
Die schnelle Vermehrung der Algen ist ein Problem für den See.
The rapid reproduction of the algae is a problem for the lake.
increase
The increase of something in quantity, number, or value.
Das Unternehmen strebt eine Vermehrung des Kapitals an.
The company aims for an increase in capital.
'Die Vermehrung' (reproduction; increase) is derived from the word 'mehr' (more). The related verb is '(sich) vermehren' (to multiply; to increase), which means 'mehr werden' (to become more) or 'etwas mehr machen' (to increase something). The noun describes this process.
Die Kaninchen im Garten haben sich rasant vermehrt.
The rabbits in the garden multiplied rapidly.
The context makes the meaning clear. In the biological field, it is about the reproduction of living beings ('Vermehrung von Bakterien' — reproduction of bacteria). In economic or abstract contexts, it means an increase in quantity or value ('Vermehrung des Wissens' — increase of knowledge).
Die unkontrollierte Vermehrung der Schädlinge zerstört die Ernte.
The uncontrolled reproduction of the pests is destroying the harvest.
In a biological context, the type of reproduction is often described with adjectives such as 'schnell' (fast), 'rasant' (rapid), 'massenhaft' (massive), or 'unkontrolliert' (uncontrolled), especially when it is a problem.
Die massenhafte Vermehrung der Quallen ist eine Folge der Erderwärmung.
The massive reproduction of jellyfish is a consequence of global warming.
When it is about an increase in value or quantity, you often find combinations such as 'Vermehrung des Kapitals' (increase in capital), 'Vermehrung des Vermögens' (increase in wealth), or 'Vermehrung des Wohlstands' (increase in prosperity).
Bildung führt zur Vermehrung von Chancen im Leben.
Education leads to an increase in opportunities in life.
increase
Both words can describe a larger number or quantity. Zunahme generally refers to something becoming greater, whereas Vermehrung in the case of living beings suggests the process of reproduction and the creation of additional specimens. Use Zunahme for an observed increase and Vermehrung for this process of reproduction.
Die Vermehrung der Pflanzen gelingt durch neue Stecklinge besonders gut.
The plants reproduce particularly well through new cuttings.
Die Zunahme der Pflanzenzahl im Gewächshaus fiel erst nach mehreren Wochen auf.
The increase in the number of plants in the greenhouse was only noticed after several weeks.
