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Sendung vs. Übertragung vs. Ausstrahlung

Word practice demo
The German words Sendung, Übertragung, and Ausstrahlung all refer to concepts related to broadcasting or sending, but their meanings and usage vary depending on the context. Understanding the distinctions can greatly improve comprehension and communication in German.

Sendung

A2
Sendung refers to a program, shipment, or act of sending something. It can be used in the context of broadcasting TV or radio programs as well as sending a parcel or delivery.
Die Sendung beginnt um 20 Uhr.
(The program starts at 8 PM.)
Ich warte auf die Sendung meines Pakets.
(I am waiting for the shipment of my parcel.)
Diese Sendung wird jeden Sonntag ausgestrahlt.
(This program is broadcast every Sunday.)

Übertragung

B1
Übertragung typically means the live or recorded transmission of events or information, such as sports events, official announcements, or other broadcasts. It emphasizes the process of transmitting content.
Die Übertragung des Fußballspiels wurde im Fernsehen gezeigt.
(The transmission of the soccer game was shown on TV.)
Die Übertragung der Konferenz war sehr klar.
(The broadcast of the conference was very clear.)
Die Übertragung der Daten verlief ohne Probleme.
(The transmission of the data went smoothly.)

Ausstrahlung

B2
Ausstrahlung focuses on the act of broadcasting or airing specific content, such as a program, and often emphasizes the technical process or the scheduled airing. Additionally, it can refer metaphorically to someone's charisma or aura.
Die Ausstrahlung der neuen Serie beginnt nächste Woche.
(The broadcast of the new series begins next week.)
Die Ausstrahlung des Films dauerte zwei Stunden.
(The airing of the movie lasted two hours.)
Ihre Ausstrahlung ist einfach faszinierend.
(Her charisma is simply fascinating.)

Summary

The three words serve distinct purposes despite their similarity. Sendung is a versatile word used for programs or shipments, while Übertragung refers to the act of transmitting live or recorded content, with emphasis on the event or process. Ausstrahlung, on the other hand, highlights the act of broadcasting specific content or refers to a person's charisma. Each word has unique nuances that dictate its usage in specific contexts.