This is the 11362nd most frequent German word.
spatenstich
Groundbreaking (ceremony).
Here, 'Spatenstich' is used metaphorically to refer to the ceremonial beginning of a construction project.
Der Spatenstich für das neue Schulgebäude fand gestern statt.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the new school building took place yesterday.
In this context, 'Spatenstich' implies the start of a new phase in the construction process.
Nach dem Spatenstich begannen die Bauarbeiter mit den Erdarbeiten.
After the groundbreaking, the construction workers started with the earthworks.
This usage of 'Spatenstich' highlights its role in symbolizing the initiation of a development or project.