der Abbau
Translation
dismantling, reduction, mining, degradation
Examples
Der Abbau der alten Fabrik beginnt morgen.
The dismantling of the old factory begins tomorrow.
Der Abbau von Arbeitsplätzen ist ein Problem.
The reduction of jobs is a problem.
Der Abbau von Kohle schadet der Umwelt.
The mining of coal harms the environment.
Der biologische Abbau von Plastik dauert lange.
The biological degradation of plastic takes a long time.
Grammar Patterns
the Abbau ((of sth.)) the dismantling/reduction of sth. The reduction of prejudices is important.
Similar Words
Synonyms: dismantling, reduction; Antonym: Aufbau (construction)
Etymology
From the prefix 'ab-' (off, down) and 'Bau' (construction). It literally means 'un-building' or 'building down'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'ab' as 'away' and 'Bau' as 'build'. So, 'Abbau' is taking the 'build' 'away', which means dismantling or reducing.