Erweiterung
[ɛɐ̯ˈvaɪ̯təʁʊŋ]
The English word expansion is translated into German as Erweiterung.
Erweiterung is used to describe the expansion of scope, knowledge or a system. German also commonly uses the loanword Expansion in formal contexts.
Meaning: act of expanding (noun)
Which one should you use?
Erweiterung typically refers to an expansion of scope, knowledge or a system. In contrast, if you are talking about the physical expansion of volume or space (e.g., thermal expansion), use Ausdehnung. For the expansion of an area or influence in a formal context, you may also use Ausweitung.
How does it change in a sentence?
Erweiterung is a feminine noun and is used with the definite article die. The plural form of this noun is Erweiterungen.
Did you know?
- In a mathematical context, 'expanding' an equation uses the term Auflösen or Ausmultiplizieren rather than Erweiterung.
- German uses Expansion primarily for economic or imperial growth, making it sound more aggressive than the neutral Erweiterung.
- In German, the word Ausdehnung is used for physical expansion, which shares a root with the word for 'stretching' a rubber band.
Examples in context
- Esperanto ist eine enorme Erweiterung meines Horizonts.Esperanto is a huge expansion of my horizon.This sentence shows how to use Erweiterung when talking about the expansion of one's horizons.Tatoeba #2106744 by al_ex_an_der, translation #2106831 by Dario
- Das Unternehmen plant eine Expansion in den asiatischen Markt.The company plans an expansion into the Asian market.
- Die Vergrößerung des Produktionsteams war notwendig.The expansion of the production team was necessary.
- Die Ausweitung des Einflussgebiets war ein strategischer Schritt.The expansion of the sphere of influence was a strategic move.
- Unsere WG plant eine Erweiterung um ein drittes Zimmer.Our flat share is planning an expansion by adding a third room.
- Die Firma plant eine Expansion ihrer Belegschaft aufgrund des anhaltenden Wachstums.The company plans to expand its workforce due to ongoing growth.
- Eine Erweiterung des Produktportfolios könnte zu einer Umsatzsteigerung führen.An expansion of the product portfolio could lead to an increase in sales.
- Die Erweiterung des Parks ist geplant.The expansion of the park is planned.
- Wir warten auf die Erweiterung des Angebots.We are waiting for the expansion of the range of products.
Example conversation
Julian and Laura are discussing the company's future growth.
- JulianGlaubst du, die Erweiterung wird bald kommen?Do you think the expansion will happen soon?
- LauraIch hoffe es, Julian.I hope so, Julian.
- JulianDie Erweiterung der Firma ist sehr wichtig.The expansion of the company is very important.
- LauraJa, das stimmt absolut.Yes, that is absolutely true.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Erweiterung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
