transformation / consecration
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transformation
A process of profound change or transformation in which someone or something takes on a new form, a new character, or a new state.
Die Hauptfigur des Romans durchlebt eine erstaunliche Wandlung vom Feigling zum Helden.
The main character of the novel undergoes an astonishing transformation from coward to hero.
'Die Wandlung' (the transformation) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'wandeln' (to change/transform). It is also closely related to 'verwandeln' (to transform). All of these words describe a form of change or transformation.
Die Raupe verwandelt sich in einen Schmetterling.
The caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.
'Wandlung' (transformation) usually describes a profound, internal, or essential change, often over a longer period of time. It is used for more than just a superficial change.
Seine Zeit im Ausland führte zu einer tiefen Wandlung seiner Persönlichkeit.
His time abroad led to a profound transformation of his personality.
Common verbs combined with 'Wandlung' (transformation) are 'eine Wandlung durchmachen' (to undergo a transformation) or 'eine Wandlung vollziehen' (to carry out/undergo a transformation). Both mean that someone or something changes.
Das Unternehmen hat in den letzten Jahren eine beeindruckende Wandlung vollzogen.
The company has undergone an impressive transformation in recent years.
To describe the initial and final state of the change, the structure 'die Wandlung von ... zu ...' (the transformation from ... to ...) is often used.
Der Film zeigt die Wandlung eines schüchternen Jungen zu einem selbstbewussten Anführer.
The film shows the transformation of a shy boy into a confident leader.
You can almost always recognize this special meaning from the context. Words like 'Kirche' (church), 'Messe' (Mass), 'Altar' (altar), 'Priester' (priest), and 'Brot und Wein' (bread and wine) clearly point to the religious term.
Der Priester sprach die Worte der Wandlung über Brot und Wein.
The priest spoke the words of consecration over the bread and wine.
development
'die Entwicklung' and 'die Wandlung' both have to do with change. 'Entwicklung' usually describes a longer process that happens step by step. 'Wandlung' sounds stronger and means a deeper change in which someone or something takes on a new character, state, or form. The words can be confused because both express change. If the course of the process is important, 'Entwicklung' fits; if the change is very clear or fundamental, 'Wandlung' fits better.
Nach dem Umzug bemerkten ihre Freunde eine starke Wandlung in ihrem Verhalten.
After the move, her friends noticed a major change in her behavior.
Die Entwicklung des Stadtteils dauerte viele Jahre.
The development of the neighborhood took many years.