lecture
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lecture
A class at a university or college in which a lecturer or professor gives a talk on an academic subject.
Die Vorlesung zur mittelalterlichen Geschichte findet im größten Hörsaal statt.
The lecture on medieval history takes place in the largest lecture hall.
The word is made up of 'vor' (in front of/before) and 'Lesung' (reading, from 'lesen' — to read). Historically, a professor read the course material aloud in front of the students. This literal meaning explains the term.
Der Professor ist bekannt dafür, seine Vorlesungen sehr lebendig zu gestalten.
The professor is known for making his lectures very lively.
Different verbs are used depending on the perspective. Lecturers 'halten' or 'geben' eine Vorlesung (give a lecture). Students 'besuchen', 'hören', or 'gehen in' eine Vorlesung (attend/go to a lecture).
Professor Müller hält diese Vorlesung schon seit zehn Jahren.
Professor Müller has been giving this lecture for ten years.
The term 'Vorlesung' (lecture) is used almost exclusively in the context of universities and colleges. There, it refers to a typical form of teaching.
Im ersten Semester habe ich drei verschiedene Vorlesungen.
In my first semester, I have three different lectures.
lecture / presentation
Vortrag and Vorlesung both convey knowledge about a topic to an audience. A Vorlesung is a university class and is usually part of a regular course of study. Vortrag is more general and can also be a one-time event held outside a university.
Die Professorin hält jeden Freitag eine Vorlesung über künstliche Intelligenz.
The professor gives a lecture on artificial intelligence every Friday.
Die Professorin hält am Freitag einen öffentlichen Vortrag über künstliche Intelligenz.
The professor is giving a public talk about artificial intelligence on Friday.
