noun
representation, substitution
B1
Vertretung (die, Plural: Vertretungen) means representation (acting on behalf) or substitution/cover (a deputy replacing someone). It's a feminine noun; plural die Vertretungen. Common phrases: 'in Vertretung von' (on behalf of) and 'Vertretung übernehmen' (to take over substitute duty). Used in legal, work, educational contexts.
Examples
Ich brauche eine Vertretung.
I need a substitute.
Die Vertretung im Parlament entscheidet über wichtige Anträge.
The representation in parliament decides on important motions.
Der Direktor organisierte eine Vertretung, weil mehrere Lehrer krank wurden.
The principal organized a substitute because several teachers became ill.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine a nameplate that says 'Vertretung' on the office door when someone is away.
‘vertretung’ sounds like 'vert + re-tung' — think 'one who stands in' (substitute).
die — think 'die Vertretung' like other -ung nouns which are feminine.
Notes
Derives from the verb 'vertreten'. As -ung nouns, it's feminine. Can mean both 'substitution' (someone standing in) and 'representation' (institutional representation).