influx / inlet
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influx
The appearance of many people who are interested in an event, place, or organization; great popularity or demand.
Der neue Verein hat einen enormen Zulauf an Mitgliedern.
The new club has seen an enormous influx of members.
inlet
The point where a liquid or gas flows into a system or container; also the pipe or opening itself.
Der Techniker überprüfte den Zulauf zum Wassertank.
The technician checked the inlet to the water tank.
'Der Zulauf' is the nominalization of the verb 'zulaufen' (to run/flow toward). It is made up of 'zu' (toward) and 'laufen' (to run) and describes movement toward something — either of people or of liquids.
Der Zulauf von frischem Wasser in den Teich ist wichtig für die Fische.
The inflow of fresh water into the pond is important for the fish.
You can easily distinguish the two meanings from context. If people, members, or customers are being discussed, it refers to popularity. If the context is technology, pipes, or containers, it refers to the inflow of a liquid.
Der Tag der offenen Tür hatte einen großen Zulauf.
The open house had a large turnout.
When describing who or what makes up the influx, the preposition 'an' with the dative is often used. Typical verbs are 'haben' (to have), 'erleben' (to experience), or 'verzeichnen' (to record/register).
Die Universität verzeichnet einen starken Zulauf an internationalen Studierenden.
The university is recording a strong influx of international students.
approval / support
Both words can express strong interest in an event. Zuspruch refers to the positive response or demand, while Zulauf especially emphasizes that many people actually come or join an organization.
Am Tag des Stadtfestes sorgt der große Zulauf für lange Schlangen am Eingang.
On the day of the city festival, the large influx of visitors causes long lines at the entrance.
Schon vor dem Stadtfest zeigt der große Zuspruch, wie beliebt das neue Programm ist.
Even before the city festival, the strong interest shows how popular the new program is.
