The playing of recorded sounds, images, or data using a technical device.
example
Die Wiedergabe des Videos stockt wegen der schlechten Internetverbindung.
The playback of the video is stuttering because of the poor internet connection.
Usage tips
Word structure
The noun 'Wiedergabe' (playback / rendition) is derived from the separable verb 'wiedergeben' (to reproduce, to render). It consists of 'wieder' (again) and 'geben' (to give). So the basic idea is to 'give out' again something that one has received, such as sounds, information, or a work of art.
EXAMPLE
Der Zeuge konnte den Tathergang nicht exakt wiedergeben.
The witness could not reproduce the sequence of events exactly.
Context clues
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. If it is about technical devices, such as players or computers, it means playback. If it is about facts or stories, it means retelling or giving an account. In the context of art, such as music or theater, it means interpretation or rendition.
EXAMPLE
Die Wiedergabe der Audiodatei war fehlerhaft.
The playback of the audio file was faulty.
Typical collocations (technology)
In a technical context, typical verbs are 'start,' 'stop,' or 'pause.' Adjectives that describe the quality are often 'smooth,' 'stuttering,' or 'error-free.'
EXAMPLE
Für eine flüssige Wiedergabe von 4K-Videos brauchst du eine schnelle Internetverbindung.
For smooth playback of 4K videos, you need a fast internet connection.
Typical collocations (narration)
When it is about retelling something, accuracy is often evaluated. Typical adjectives here are 'faithful to the original,' 'paraphrased,' or 'abridged' Wiedergabe (account / rendering).
EXAMPLE
Das Protokoll ist nur eine sinngemäße Wiedergabe der Diskussion.
The minutes are only a paraphrased account of the discussion.
Typical collocations (art)
In the artistic field, adjectives often describe the quality of the interpretation. Common combinations are 'brilliant,' 'expressive,' or 'technically perfect' Wiedergabe (rendition).
EXAMPLE
Das Publikum feierte die brillante Wiedergabe des Konzerts.
The audience celebrated the brilliant rendition of the concert.
Compare with
near_synonym
Wiedergabe vs Bericht
report
'der Bericht' and 'die Wiedergabe' can both mean that information is presented again. A 'Bericht' is usually a factual account of facts or events. A 'Wiedergabe' puts more emphasis on presenting something you have heard, read, or experienced again in your own words. In school, for example, the 'Wiedergabe' of a text can be important. 'Bericht' fits better when new information is communicated in an organized way. 'Wiedergabe' fits better when the content of something that already exists is presented again.
Wiedergabe
Herr Kaya bittet um eine kurze Wiedergabe des Gesprächs.
Mr. Kaya asks for a brief account of the conversation.
Bericht
Am Bahnhof erzählt ihr Paul den Bericht über den Vorfall.
At the train station, Paul tells her the report about the incident.