das Vorfeld
Translation
apron (airport), forefield, preliminary stages, in advance
Examples
Das Flugzeug steht auf dem Vorfeld.
The aeroplane is on the apron.
Wir müssen das im Vorfeld klären.
We have to clarify that in advance.
Im Vorfeld der Wahlen gab es viele Debatten.
There were many debates in the run-up to the elections.
Grammar Patterns
((on sth.)) on the apron (location) The plane is waiting on the apron.
((in advance)) in advance (time) There was much discussion in advance of the meeting.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (airport) Apron; (time) im Voraus, vorab; Antonyms: Nachfeld, im Nachhinein
Etymology
Composed of 'vor' (before, in front of) + 'Feld' (field). Literally 'the field in front'.
Memory Tips
Picture the 'Feld' (field) that is 'vor' (in front of) a main building, like an airport terminal. This helps with both the literal and the figurative 'in advance' meaning.