der Vorläufer
precursor
An earlier, often simpler version of something that was later developed further; a predecessor.
EXAMPLE
Das Telegramm kann als ein Vorläufer der E-Mail betrachtet werden.
The telegram can be considered a precursor of email.
der Vorläufer
precursor
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Meanings
der Vorläufer
forerunner
A sign or event that points to something in the future.
EXAMPLE
Die dunklen Wolken waren die Vorläufer eines schweren Gewitters.
The dark clouds were the forerunners of a severe thunderstorm.
der Vorläufer
precursor
A person who represented a particular position, role, or idea before someone else. In this meaning, the word 'Vorgänger' (predecessor) is used more often.
EXAMPLE
John Locke gilt als wichtiger Vorläufer der Aufklärung.
John Locke is considered an important precursor of the Enlightenment.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Vorläufer' consists of 'vor' (before/ahead) and a form of the verb 'laufen' (to run/walk). So it literally describes something or someone that 'runs ahead' or precedes a development.
EXAMPLE
Das Laufrad war ein Vorläufer des heutigen Fahrrads.
The balance bike was a precursor of today's bicycle.
Use with 'von'
To say what something is a precursor of, German usually uses the preposition 'von' followed by the dative, or the genitive.
EXAMPLE
Diese einfachen Rechenmaschinen gelten als Vorläufer von modernen Computern.
These simple calculating machines are considered precursors of modern computers.
Context clue
In the meaning of 'Anzeichen' (sign), 'Vorläufer' often refers to natural phenomena or abstract developments that point to a larger event.
EXAMPLE
Die ersten Proteste waren nur die Vorläufer einer landesweiten Bewegung.
The first protests were only the forerunners of a nationwide movement.
Compare with
Vorläufer vs Vorgänger
predecessor
Both words can refer to an earlier version of a product. Der Vorgänger is usually the directly preceding version, while der Vorläufer refers to an earlier stage of development and does not necessarily come immediately before it. Use „Vorgänger“ for the previous model and „Vorläufer“ for an earlier foundation of the development process.
Vorläufer
Dieses einfache Gerät war der Vorläufer der heutigen modernen Modelle.
This simple device was the precursor to today’s modern models.
Vorgänger
Dieses neue Auto ist sparsamer als sein direkter Vorgänger.
This new car is more fuel-efficient than its direct predecessor.
In real life
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