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Existing or taking place in a computer-generated, non-physical world. This English loanword is used in German almost exclusively in the context of technology and the internet, often as a synonym for 'virtuell' (virtual).
Die Teilnahme an der Konferenz ist sowohl vor Ort als auch virtual möglich.
Participation in the conference is possible both on site and virtually.
In German, 'virtual' refers almost only to the world of computers and the internet. In English, 'virtual' also has the meaning 'almost' or 'practically' (e.g., 'a virtual stop'). The German word does not have this figurative meaning.
Wir machen eine virtual Tour durch das Museum.
We are taking a virtual tour through the museum.
As an English loanword, 'virtual' is often not declined, especially when it comes after the noun or is used as an adverb. It keeps its base form.
Das Meeting findet heute nur virtual statt.
The meeting is taking place only virtually today.
'Virtual' is used almost exclusively with terms from the digital world. Common combinations are 'virtual Reality' (VR), a 'virtual Meeting,' or a 'virtual Showroom.'
Mit der neuen Brille kann man in die virtual Reality eintauchen.
With the new headset, you can immerse yourself in virtual reality.
online
'online' and 'virtual' can both have to do with digital services and the internet. 'Online' mainly says that something happens over the internet or that someone is connected. 'Virtual' describes more of a non-physical, computer-made world or environment. In German, 'virtuell' is much more common for this; 'virtual' feels like an English loanword and mainly fits in technical contexts. Learners may confuse the words because a virtual meeting often also takes place online. But not everything that is online is automatically a virtual world.
Vor dem Gespräch testet Sofia die Virtual-Reality-Brille im Kurs.
Before the conversation, Sofia tests the virtual reality headset in the course.
Zur Vorbereitung auf den Termin füllt der Kunde das Formular online aus.
To prepare for the appointment, the customer fills out the form online.