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.
'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 / rise
'die Erhöhung' and 'die Vermehrung' both describe something becoming more. 'die Erhöhung' is often used for amounts, prices, salaries, taxes, or a degree. 'die Vermehrung' fits especially when the number or quantity increases; with living organisms, it also means reproduction. The words can be confused because both express an increase. But for sums of money or fixed values, 'Erhöhung' is usually more natural. For plants, animals, bacteria, or a growing quantity, 'Vermehrung' fits better.
Im warmen Wasser geht die Vermehrung der Bakterien besonders schnell.
In warm water, the reproduction of bacteria happens especially quickly.
Der Chef erklärt die Erhöhung der Preise mit den teuren Materialien.
The boss explains the increase in prices with the expensive materials.