dedication
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dedication
A short text at the beginning of a book, work of art, or piece of music with which the author or artist dedicates the work to a particular person.
Das Buch beginnt mit der Widmung „Für meine Eltern“.
The book begins with the dedication 'For my parents.'
devotion
Devotion or commitment to a particular task, goal, or person.
Ihre ganze Widmung galt der Erforschung seltener Krankheiten.
All her devotion was directed toward researching rare diseases.
dedication
A legal or administrative act by which something, for example a road or square, is designated for public use.
Nach der Widmung der Straße für den öffentlichen Verkehr durften alle Autos dort fahren.
After the dedication of the road for public traffic, all cars were allowed to drive there.
'Die Widmung' (dedication) is derived from the verb 'widmen' (to dedicate). The constructions with the verb help you understand the meanings: 'jemandem ein Buch widmen' (to dedicate a book to someone; meaning 1) and 'sich einer Aufgabe widmen' (to devote oneself to a task; meaning 2).
Er widmete sein Leben der Musik.
He devoted his life to music.
A dedication in a book or work of art is usually a short text that often begins with the preposition 'Für' (for), followed by a name.
Auf der ersten Seite stand die handschriftliche Widmung des Autors.
On the first page was the author's handwritten dedication.
When it is about devotion, 'Widmung' (dedication / devotion) is often used with the preposition 'an' (+ accusative) or a genitive to name the object of the devotion.
Seine Widmung an das Projekt war beeindruckend.
His devotion to the project was impressive.
This meaning of 'Widmung' (dedication) is a technical term from administrative law. You encounter it almost only in official or legal texts that refer to public areas such as roads or parks.
Die Widmung des Platzes als öffentliche Grünfläche wurde von der Stadt genehmigt.
The dedication of the square as a public green space was approved by the city.
devotion
Hingabe and Widmung can both refer to a strong commitment to a task, goal, or person. Hingabe emphasizes intense, often selfless emotional involvement, while Widmung emphasizes consciously devoting oneself to something. Use Widmung when someone explicitly commits themselves to a goal.
Sie hat ihr Leben der Unterstützung älterer Menschen gewidmet.
She has devoted her life to supporting older people.
Sie kümmert sich mit großer Hingabe um die älteren Menschen.
She takes care of the older people with great dedication.
