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B1 noun 8 min read

die Untersuchung

Examples die Untersuchung in 30 Seconds
Explanation die Untersuchung in your Level:
At the A1 level, you only need to know 'die Untersuchung' in the context of visiting a doctor. It is a big word, but it is very useful. Think of it as 'the check-up.' When you go to the doctor (der Arzt), he or she does an 'Untersuchung' to see if you are healthy. You might hear: 'Ich brauche eine Untersuchung.' (I need an examination). You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that it is a 'die' word (feminine) and it is what happens at a hospital or a clinic. If you see a sign that says 'Untersuchungszimmer,' that is the room where the doctor examines patients. You might also hear it in very simple police shows on TV, where they look for clues. But for now, focus on the medical meaning. It is a long word, so practice saying it slowly: Un-ter-su-chung. The 'ung' at the end is a common ending for nouns in German, and it always makes the word feminine.
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At the A2 level, you start to see 'die Untersuchung' in more varied contexts. You still use it for the doctor, but you might also use it for technical things, like a car inspection. If your car is broken, the mechanic does an 'Untersuchung' to find the problem. You also learn that 'untersuchen' is the verb (to examine). In A2, you should be able to form simple sentences like: 'Der Arzt untersucht das Kind.' (The doctor examines the child) or 'Die Untersuchung dauert lange.' (The examination takes a long time). You are also introduced to the plural: 'die Untersuchungen.' You might have to go to several 'Untersuchungen' if you are sick. Remember that 'die Untersuchung' is more formal than just 'der Test.' It implies that someone professional is looking at something carefully. You will also start to see it in news headlines about simple investigations.
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At the B1 level, 'die Untersuchung' becomes a key word for discussing social, scientific, and professional topics. You are expected to use it in the sense of a 'scientific study' or a 'formal investigation.' For example, when writing a report or discussing an article, you might say: 'Eine neue Untersuchung hat gezeigt, dass...' (A new study has shown that...). You should also be familiar with common collocations like 'eine Untersuchung durchführen' (to conduct an investigation) and 'eine Untersuchung einleiten' (to initiate an investigation). At this level, the distinction between 'die Untersuchung' (the process) and 'das Ergebnis' (the result) is important. You will often talk about 'die Ergebnisse der Untersuchung' (the results of the study). You also encounter compound words like 'Vorsorgeuntersuchung' (preventative check-up) or 'Umweltuntersuchung' (environmental study). Your understanding of the word shifts from a simple doctor's visit to a systematic process of gathering and analyzing information in any field.
At the B2 level, you use 'die Untersuchung' with much more precision and in abstract contexts. You will distinguish it from synonyms like 'Ermittlung,' 'Analyse,' or 'Recherche.' You are expected to handle complex grammatical structures, such as using the genitive case to describe what is being examined: 'Die Untersuchung der wirtschaftlichen Lage' (The investigation of the economic situation). You will also use more sophisticated verbs like 'belegen' (to prove) or 'untermauern' (to support) in conjunction with 'Untersuchung.' For instance: 'Die Untersuchung untermauert die These, dass...' (The study supports the thesis that...). In professional settings, you might discuss 'Qualitätsuntersuchungen' or 'Marktuntersuchungen' with ease. You also understand the cultural nuance that an 'Untersuchung' in Germany is expected to be 'gründlich' (thorough) and 'objektiv' (objective). You can participate in debates about whether a 'parlamentarische Untersuchung' is necessary for a political scandal.
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At the C1 level, 'die Untersuchung' is a tool for high-level academic and professional discourse. You will use it to describe the methodology of a paper or the scrutiny of a complex legal case. You are aware of its stylistic weight. You might use terms like 'tiefgreifende Untersuchung' (in-depth investigation) or 'empirische Untersuchung' (empirical study). You understand how to use the word in the passive voice to emphasize the process: 'Es wurde eine umfassende Untersuchung eingeleitet.' (A comprehensive investigation was initiated). You can also use the word metaphorically to describe the critical analysis of a literary text or a philosophical concept. At this level, you are expected to know the nuances between 'Untersuchung' and 'Sondierung' (exploratory talks) or 'Begutachtung' (expert assessment). Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'Untersuchung' as part of a sophisticated argument, detailing its scope, methodology, and limitations.
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At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'die Untersuchung.' You can use it in the most formal academic writing, legal documents, and high-level political speeches. You understand the subtle differences between 'die Untersuchung' and 'die Obduktion' (autopsy) or 'die Revision' (audit/review) in specific technical fields. You can play with the word in rhetorical contexts, perhaps criticizing a 'pseudowissenschaftliche Untersuchung' (pseudo-scientific study) or praising the 'akribische Untersuchung' (meticulous investigation) of a historian. You are comfortable with all idiomatic expressions and can use the word in complex nominalized structures that are typical of high-level German 'Beamtendeutsch' (bureaucratic German). You might analyze the 'Untersuchungshaft' (remand/detention awaiting trial) in a legal debate or discuss the 'Untersuchungsausschuss' (investigative committee) in the Bundestag with a deep understanding of the constitutional implications. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile concept you can manipulate to express precise, nuanced thoughts.
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Examples

die Untersuchung in 30 Seconds

  • A feminine noun meaning examination, investigation, or scientific study.
  • Commonly used in medical, legal, and academic contexts to describe systematic looking.
  • Usually paired with verbs like 'durchführen' (conduct) or 'einleiten' (initiate).
  • Essential for B1 learners to describe professional or detailed processes beyond simple tests.

The German noun die Untersuchung is a versatile and essential term that translates most commonly as 'examination,' 'investigation,' or 'research study.' At its core, the word describes the process of looking closely at something to understand its nature, identify a problem, or discover the truth. Whether you are at a doctor's office, a crime scene, or a university laboratory, you will encounter this word frequently. It is derived from the verb untersuchen, which literally means 'to search under' or 'to look beneath the surface.' This etymological roots perfectly captures the essence of the word: it is not just a superficial glance, but a deep, systematic inquiry.

Medical Context
In a healthcare setting, die Untersuchung refers to a physical check-up or a specific medical test. If a doctor says you need a 'gründliche Untersuchung,' they mean a thorough physical examination. This can range from a routine annual check-up (Vorsorgeuntersuchung) to a specialized diagnostic procedure like an MRI or blood test.

Der Arzt führt heute eine körperliche Untersuchung durch, um die Ursache der Schmerzen zu finden.

Legal and Forensic Context
When the police or a court of law is involved, the word shifts its meaning toward 'investigation.' A 'polizeiliche Untersuchung' is a police investigation into a crime. It implies a formal process of gathering evidence, questioning witnesses, and analyzing facts to reach a legal conclusion.

Die kriminalistische Untersuchung des Tatorts dauerte mehrere Stunden an.

Scientific and Academic Context
In academia, the term refers to a scientific study, research project, or analysis. Scholars conduct 'wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen' to test hypotheses. Here, it is often synonymous with 'Studie' or 'Analyse,' but emphasizes the rigorous process of the inquiry itself.

Die neue Untersuchung zeigt einen deutlichen Zusammenhang zwischen Klima und Ernte.

Beyond these primary fields, the word is used in general contexts to describe any detailed inspection. For instance, a 'technische Untersuchung' might be required for a car (like the TÜV in Germany) or a building structure. It always implies a level of formality and systematic approach. It is not just looking; it is analyzing with a purpose. Because of its broad utility, mastering this word is crucial for B1 learners who are moving from basic daily interactions to more professional and technical discussions.

Ohne eine genaue Untersuchung der Fakten können wir keine Entscheidung treffen.

Die Untersuchung der Bodenproben ergab eine hohe Belastung mit Schwermetallen.

Grammatically, die Untersuchung is a feminine noun. This means it takes the articles die (nominative/accusative), der (genitive/dative), and eine/einer. Understanding how it interacts with verbs is key to sounding natural. The most common verb paired with it is durchführen (to carry out/conduct). You don't just 'do' an investigation in formal German; you 'conduct' it.

Common Verb Pairings
1. Durchführen: To conduct an examination. 2. Einleiten: To initiate/start an investigation (often used by police or authorities). 3. Abschließen: To complete or conclude an investigation. 4. Ergeben: To result in (e.g., the investigation resulted in...).

Die Staatsanwaltschaft hat eine offizielle Untersuchung gegen die Firma eingeleitet.

Adjectives play a major role in specifying the type of examination. You will often see 'ärztliche' (medical), 'wissenschaftliche' (scientific), 'genaue' (exact/precise), or 'oberflächliche' (superficial). Using these adjectives helps provide the necessary context since the noun itself is so broad.

Nach einer kurzen Untersuchung konnte der Techniker den Fehler am Gerät beheben.

In more complex sentences, Untersuchung often serves as the subject that 'reveals' or 'proves' something. Verbs like zeigen (to show), bestätigen (to confirm), or belegen (to prove/document) are frequently used in scientific writing. For example: 'Die Untersuchung belegt, dass...' (The study proves that...). This structure is vital for academic writing and reporting.

Die Untersuchung der Wasserqualität wird monatlich wiederholt.

Wir warten noch auf das Ergebnis der pathologischen Untersuchung.

You will encounter die Untersuchung in a variety of everyday and professional environments in German-speaking countries. In the news, it is almost a daily occurrence. Journalists report on 'parlamentarische Untersuchungen' (parliamentary inquiries) or 'kriminalpolizeiliche Untersuchungen' regarding high-profile cases. If there is a scandal or a major accident, the first thing people ask for is an 'unabhängige Untersuchung' (independent investigation).

At the Doctor (Beim Arzt)
You will hear this word the moment you step into a praxis. The receptionist might say: 'Bitte nehmen Sie Platz, der Arzt ruft Sie gleich zur Untersuchung auf.' (Please take a seat, the doctor will call you for the examination shortly). In Germany, there are specific 'U-Untersuchungen' for children, which are mandatory developmental checkups.

Vergessen Sie nicht, den Termin für die nächste Vorsorgeuntersuchung zu vereinbaren.

In the Workplace
In a corporate or technical environment, it refers to quality control or audits. A 'Materialuntersuchung' checks the quality of raw materials. A 'Marktuntersuchung' is market research. If a project fails, there might be an 'interne Untersuchung' to find out what went wrong.

Die firmeninterne Untersuchung ergab keine Hinweise auf Fehlverhalten.

Finally, in the education system, students are taught how to conduct 'Untersuchungen' as part of their scientific training. Whether it is examining a poem in a German class (Textuntersuchung) or a chemical reaction in a lab, the word represents the analytical mindset encouraged in German schools. It is about moving from 'what' to 'how' and 'why' through methodical observation.

In der heutigen Biologiestunde führen wir eine Untersuchung von Pflanzenzellen durch.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make is confusing die Untersuchung with other similar words like die Prüfung or der Test. While they all involve checking something, their nuances are different. A Prüfung is usually an exam you take to get a grade or a license. An Untersuchung is a process of discovery or diagnosis. You 'pass' a Prüfung, but you 'undergo' or 'receive' an Untersuchung.

Mistake: Using 'machen' instead of 'durchführen'
While 'eine Untersuchung machen' is understandable in casual speech, it sounds somewhat childish or uneducated in professional settings. Always aim for 'durchführen' or 'vornehmen' to sound more proficient.

Falsch: Ich mache eine Untersuchung.
Richtig: Ich führe eine Untersuchung durch.

Another error involves the gender. Because many words ending in '-ung' are feminine, learners usually get the gender right, but they often forget the plural form. It is simply die Untersuchungen. Some learners try to use 'Untersuchunge' or 'Untersuchungenen', which are incorrect. Remember: -ung nouns always take -en in the plural.

Lastly, don't confuse Untersuchung with Forschung. Forschung (research) is the general field or long-term activity, whereas die Untersuchung is a specific, individual instance of that research. You can be active in 'Krebsforschung' (cancer research) and conduct a specific 'Untersuchung' on a new drug.

Die Untersuchung ist Teil einer größeren Forschung zum Thema Nachhaltigkeit.

To expand your vocabulary, it is helpful to know synonyms and related terms that can replace die Untersuchung depending on the context. While 'Untersuchung' is the most general term, these alternatives offer more precision.

Die Analyse vs. Die Untersuchung
An Analyse focuses on breaking something down into its parts to understand its structure. An Untersuchung is the broader act of inspecting. You might conduct an 'Untersuchung' that includes a detailed 'Analyse' of the data.
Die Ermittlung vs. Die Untersuchung
In police work, Ermittlung is very common. It specifically refers to the process of finding out a culprit or facts of a crime. Untersuchung is slightly more formal and can refer to the forensic examination of the evidence itself.

Die polizeilichen Ermittlungen laufen noch, während die medizinische Untersuchung bereits abgeschlossen ist.

Die Studie vs. Die Untersuchung
In science, Studie is a direct loanword from English. It is often used for social science or medical trials. Untersuchung sounds more traditionally German and is often used for laboratory or physical examinations.

In summary, choose your word based on the 'object' of the search. If it is a person's health, use Untersuchung. If it is a criminal case, use Ermittlung. If it is a chemical substance, use Analyse. If it is a school test, use Prüfung. This nuanced understanding will elevate your German from B1 to B2 and beyond.

Eine gründliche Durchleuchtung der Finanzen war notwendig (A more metaphorical and intense version of examination).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʊntɐˈzuːxʊŋ/
US /ʊntɐˈzuːxʊŋ/
The primary stress is on the third syllable: un-ter-SU-chung.
Rhymes With
Buchung Versuchung Fluchung Durchsuchung Heimsuchung Abbuchen Besuchung Verfluchung
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'z' as an English 'z' (it should be 'ts').
  • Pronouncing the 'u' like the 'u' in 'umbrella' (it should be like 'oo' in 'foot').
  • Missing the 'ng' sound at the end and saying 'un' instead.
  • Stress on the first syllable.
  • Softening the 'ch' too much.
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Examples by Level

1

Der Arzt macht eine Untersuchung.

The doctor does an examination.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

2

Die Untersuchung ist fertig.

The examination is finished.

Using 'ist' with an adjective/participle.

3

Wo ist das Zimmer für die Untersuchung?

Where is the room for the examination?

Preposition 'für' + Accusative.

4

Ich habe morgen eine Untersuchung.

I have an examination tomorrow.

Future time reference with present tense.

5

Die Untersuchung tut nicht weh.

The examination does not hurt.

Negative 'nicht' after the verb.

6

Wie lange dauert die Untersuchung?

How long does the examination take?

Question word 'Wie lange'.

7

Eine Untersuchung ist wichtig für die Gesundheit.

An examination is important for health.

Adjective 'wichtig' with 'für'.

8

Der Arzt schreibt die Untersuchung auf.

The doctor writes down the examination (notes).

Separable verb 'aufschreiben'.

1

Nach der Untersuchung darf ich nach Hause gehen.

After the examination, I am allowed to go home.

Preposition 'nach' + Dative.

2

Die Polizei beginnt mit der Untersuchung.

The police are starting with the investigation.

Verb 'beginnen' with 'mit' + Dative.

3

Wir brauchen eine genaue Untersuchung des Autos.

We need a precise examination of the car.

Genitive case 'des Autos'.

4

Gestern gab es eine Untersuchung in der Schule.

Yesterday there was an examination in the school.

Impersonal 'es gab' + Accusative.

5

Die Ergebnisse der Untersuchung sind gut.

The results of the examination are good.

Plural subject with genitive attribute.

6

Können Sie die Untersuchung heute machen?

Can you do the examination today?

Modal verb 'können'.

7

Die Untersuchung kostet hundert Euro.

The examination costs one hundred euros.

Verb 'kosten' with an amount.

8

Ich warte auf die Untersuchung.

I am waiting for the examination.

Verb 'warten' + 'auf' + Accusative.

1

Die wissenschaftliche Untersuchung dauerte zwei Jahre.

The scientific study lasted two years.

Adjectival declension: 'wissenschaftliche' (feminine nominative).

2

Sie führen eine Untersuchung über den Klimawandel durch.

They are conducting a study on climate change.

Separable verb 'durchführen' in a sentence.

3

Die Untersuchung hat viele neue Informationen geliefert.

The investigation has provided a lot of new information.

Perfect tense with 'hat geliefert'.

4

Trotz der Untersuchung wissen wir noch nicht alles.

Despite the investigation, we still don't know everything.

Preposition 'trotz' + Genitive.

5

Eine gründliche Untersuchung ist in diesem Fall notwendig.

A thorough investigation is necessary in this case.

Predicate adjective 'notwendig'.

6

Die Untersuchung ergab, dass das Wasser sauber ist.

The investigation showed that the water is clean.

Subordinate clause starting with 'dass'.

7

Er nimmt an einer medizinischen Untersuchung teil.

He is participating in a medical study.

Verb 'teilnehmen' + 'an' + Dative.

8

Die Untersuchung wurde von Experten geleitet.

The investigation was led by experts.

Passive voice with 'wurde ... geleitet'.

1

Die Untersuchung der Markttrends ist für uns entscheidend.

The investigation of market trends is crucial for us.

Genitive 'der Markttrends' as an object of the noun.

2

Es gibt Zweifel an der Methodik der Untersuchung.

There are doubts about the methodology of the study.

Noun-preposition combination 'Zweifel an'.

3

Die Untersuchung konzentriert sich auf soziale Medien.

The study focuses on social media.

Reflexive verb 'sich konzentrieren auf' + Accusative.

4

Nach Abschluss der Untersuchung werden die Daten veröffentlicht.

After completion of the investigation, the data will be published.

Passive voice in future context.

5

Diese Untersuchung widerspricht den bisherigen Theorien.

This study contradicts previous theories.

Verb 'widersprechen' + Dative.

6

Die Untersuchung umfasst eine Befragung von tausend Personen.

The study includes a survey of one thousand people.

Verb 'umfassen' (to include/encompass).

7

Eine unabhängige Untersuchung soll Klarheit schaffen.

An independent investigation is supposed to provide clarity.

Modal verb 'soll' expressing expectation.

8

Wir haben die Untersuchung aufgrund neuer Beweise erweitert.

We expanded the investigation due to new evidence.

Preposition 'aufgrund' + Genitive.

1

Die Untersuchung offenbart tiefgreifende strukturelle Probleme.

The investigation reveals profound structural problems.

High-level vocabulary: 'offenbaren', 'tiefgreifend'.

2

Kritiker bemängeln die Einseitigkeit der Untersuchung.

Critics complain about the bias of the study.

Genitive 'der Untersuchung' showing possession of a quality.

3

In seiner Untersuchung geht der Autor der Frage nach, warum...

In his study, the author pursues the question of why...

Phrase 'einer Frage nachgehen'.

4

Die Untersuchung dient als Grundlage für weitere Reformen.

The investigation serves as a basis for further reforms.

Verb 'dienen' + 'als'.

5

Eine interdisziplinäre Untersuchung wäre hier angebracht.

An interdisciplinary study would be appropriate here.

Subjunctive II 'wäre' for a suggestion.

6

Die Untersuchung stützt sich auf umfangreiche statistische Daten.

The study relies on extensive statistical data.

Reflexive verb 'sich stützen auf' + Accusative.

7

Es mangelt der Untersuchung an einer klaren Zielsetzung.

The investigation lacks a clear objective.

Impersonal 'es mangelt' + Dative (der Untersuchung) + 'an' + Dative.

8

Die Untersuchung wurde unter strengsten Auflagen durchgeführt.

The investigation was conducted under the strictest conditions.

Superlative 'strengsten' used as an attribute.

1

Die Untersuchung bildet das Epizentrum der aktuellen Debatte.

The investigation forms the epicenter of the current debate.

Metaphorical use of 'Epizentrum'.

2

Man darf die Tragweite dieser Untersuchung nicht unterschätzen.

One must not underestimate the significance of this study.

Noun 'Tragweite' (scope/significance).

3

Die Untersuchung wurde durch bürokratische Hürden verzögert.

The investigation was delayed by bureaucratic hurdles.

Passive voice with agent 'durch' (causal).

4

Eine akribische Untersuchung der Quellen ist unerlässlich.

A meticulous examination of the sources is essential.

Adjective 'akribisch' (meticulous).

5

Die Untersuchung lässt keinen Raum für Fehlinterpretationen.

The investigation leaves no room for misinterpretations.

Idiomatic 'keinen Raum lassen für'.

6

Trotz massiver Widerstände wurde die Untersuchung fortgesetzt.

Despite massive resistance, the investigation was continued.

Preposition 'trotz' with plural genitive.

7

Die Untersuchung mündet in einer radikalen Neubewertung.

The investigation leads into a radical reassessment.

Verb 'münden in' + Dative.

8

Die Validität der Untersuchung wird in Fachkreisen bestritten.

The validity of the study is disputed in professional circles.

Noun 'Validität' and passive voice.

Common Collocations

eine Untersuchung durchführen
ärztliche Untersuchung
wissenschaftliche Untersuchung
gründliche Untersuchung
eine Untersuchung einleiten
Ergebnis der Untersuchung
polizeiliche Untersuchung
technische Untersuchung
laufende Untersuchung
gerichtliche Untersuchung

Common Phrases

In Untersuchung sein

— To be under investigation or currently being examined.

Der Patient ist zurzeit in Untersuchung.

Zur Untersuchung kommen

— To arrive for an appointment for an examination.

Bitte kommen Sie pünktlich zur Untersuchung.

Gegenstand der Untersuchung

— The object or topic being investigated.

Das Verhalten der Tiere ist Gegenstand der Untersuchung.

Im Rahmen der Untersuchung

— Within the scope or context of the study/investigation.

Im Rahmen der Untersuchung wurden viele Fragen gestellt.

Eine Untersuchung anordnen

— To order or mandate an investigation formally.

Der Richter ordnete eine Untersuchung an.

Die Untersuchung abschließen

— To finish or wrap up the investigation.

Wir werden die Untersuchung morgen abschließen.

Eine Untersuchung verweigern

— To refuse to undergo an examination.

Der Verdächtige verweigerte die Untersuchung.

Eine Untersuchung fordern

— To demand that an investigation be made.

Die Opposition fordert eine Untersuchung des Vorfalls.

Einer Untersuchung unterziehen

— To subject something or someone to an examination.

Das Gepäck wurde einer Untersuchung unterzogen.

Die Untersuchung ergab nichts

— The investigation did not find anything.

Die Untersuchung ergab leider nichts Neues.

Idioms & Expressions

"Etwas einer genauen Untersuchung unterziehen"

— To look at something very critically or carefully. It is used in professional settings.

Wir müssen diesen Plan einer genauen Untersuchung unterziehen.

formal
"In Untersuchungshaft sitzen"

— To be in jail while awaiting trial (remand).

Der Angeklagte sitzt seit Wochen in Untersuchungshaft.

legal
"Unter die Lupe nehmen"

— Literally 'to take under the magnifying glass.' An idiomatic way to say 'to examine closely.'

Wir sollten die Verträge mal unter die Lupe nehmen.

informal/neutral
"Auf Herz und Nieren prüfen"

— To check something extremely thoroughly (literally 'on heart and kidneys'). Related to examination.

Das neue System wurde auf Herz und Nieren geprüft.

idiomatic
"Den Dingen auf den Grund gehen"

— To get to the bottom of things; a goal of an investigation.

Wir müssen den Dingen mit einer Untersuchung auf den Grund gehen.

neutral
"Licht ins Dunkel bringen"

— To bring light into the darkness; what an investigation aims to do.

Die Untersuchung soll Licht ins Dunkel bringen.

journalistic
"Einen Fall aufrollen"

— To reopen a case or investigation.

Die Polizei will die Untersuchung neu aufrollen.

legal
"Hinter die Kulissen schauen"

— To look behind the scenes; a type of investigation.

Die Untersuchung erlaubt uns, hinter die Kulissen zu schauen.

neutral
"In der Kritik stehen"

— To be under criticism, often leading to an investigation.

Nach der Untersuchung steht die Behörde in der Kritik.

neutral
"Klar Schiff machen"

— To clear things up; often the result of a thorough investigation.

Nach der Untersuchung müssen wir endlich klar Schiff machen.

informal
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