der Auftritt
performance · appearance
Definition & meaning
der Auftritt means an appearance, entrance, or performance, depending on context:
-
A performance before an audience, such as a concert, play, or comedy set.
Example: “The band’s performance was excellent.” -
Someone’s arrival or appearance in public, often with attention drawn to how they present themselves.
Example: “Her public appearance attracted a lot of attention.” -
A person’s manner or style of presenting themselves—their bearing or presence.
Example: “He made a confident impression.”
Grammar & Word origin
The word combines auf (“up,” “onto”) and treten (“to step”). Its literal sense is roughly “stepping onto” a stage or into view, which explains its meanings of an entrance, appearance, or performance.
Synonyms & antonyms
The best synonym depends on the sense:
- das Auftreten means someone’s manner or way of presenting themselves. Unlike Auftritt, it usually does not refer to a specific stage performance.
- die Darbietung means a presentation or performance, emphasizing what is performed rather than the performer’s arrival.
- die Vorstellung can mean a theatrical performance or show, generally referring to the event as a whole.
- der Eingang can mean an entrance, but usually refers to a physical way in rather than someone’s arrival.
There is no single general antonym. In the sense of entering or appearing, der Abgang (“exit” or “departure”) can be an opposite. For withdrawing from public view, der Rückzug (“withdrawal”) may contrast with an Auftritt.
Common phrases & collocations
- einen Auftritt haben — to perform or make an appearance
- einen beeindruckenden Auftritt hinlegen — to make an impressive entrance or give an impressive performance
- der erste Auftritt — the first appearance or performance
- der öffentliche Auftritt — a public appearance
- der Bühnenauftritt — a stage performance or appearance
Make “der Auftritt” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Sein tänzerischer Auftritt beeindruckte das gesamte Publikum.other
His dance performance impressed the entire audience.
Wegen seines Auftritts vor Gericht war er nervös.other
He was nervous because of his appearance in court.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad