Exploring the Versatility of the German Verb “Verbinden”
The German verb “verbinden” is a versatile word with a range of meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can mean to connect, to bandage, to associate, to combine, and more. This article explores the various meanings of “verbinden” with numerous example sentences to illustrate its common usage. Additionally, we will delve into related words derived from “verbinden.”
To Connect or Join
“Verbinden” can mean to connect or join.
Physical Connection:
- “Die Schränke sind durch Schrauben miteinander verbunden.” (The cupboards are joined by screws.)
Telecommunication:
- “Könnten Sie mich bitte mit Herrn Müller verbinden?” (Could you please connect me to Mr. Müller?)
Infrastructure:
- “Die Insel ist durch eine Brücke mit dem Festland verbunden.” (The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge.)
To Bandage or Dress a Wound
Another common meaning of “verbinden” is to bandage or dress a wound.
Medical Context:
- “Der Arzt reinigte und verband die Wunde.” (The doctor cleaned and dressed the wound.)
First Aid:
- “Er musste seinen Arm verbinden, nachdem er sich geschnitten hatte.” (He had to bandage his arm after he cut himself.)
To Associate or Relate
“Verbinden” can also mean to associate or relate.
Mental Association:
- “Ich verbinde den Geruch von Zimt mit Weihnachten.” (I associate the smell of cinnamon with Christmas.)
Conceptual Link:
- “Viele Menschen verbinden Erfolg mit harter Arbeit.” (Many people associate success with hard work.)
To Combine or Unite
In addition, “verbinden” can mean to combine or unite.
Chemistry:
- “Wasserstoff und Sauerstoff verbinden sich zu Wasser.” (Hydrogen and oxygen combine to form water.)
General Combination:
- “Wir sollten das Angenehme mit dem Nützlichen verbinden.” (We should combine the pleasant with the useful.)
To Put Through (Telephone)
When it comes to telephone calls, “verbinden” is used to mean putting someone through.
Telephone Call:
- “Einen Moment bitte, ich verbinde.” (One moment please, I am putting you through.)
To Be Combined (Reflexive)
The reflexive form of “verbinden” can mean to be combined.
Personal Qualities:
- “Bei ihr verbinden sich Intelligenz und Ehrgeiz.” (She combines intelligence with ambition.)
Challenges:
- “Mit diesem Projekt sind viele Schwierigkeiten verbunden.” (This project is associated with many difficulties.)
Related Words Derived from “Verbinden”
die Verbindung (noun): Connection, association, bond
- “Die Verbindung zwischen den beiden Städten ist sehr gut.” (The connection between the two cities is very good.)
- “Er hat eine starke Verbindung zu seiner Heimat.” (He has a strong bond with his homeland.)
verbindlich (adjective): Binding, obligatory, courteous
- “Das Angebot ist verbindlich.” (The offer is binding.)
- “Er war sehr verbindlich in seiner Antwort.” (He was very courteous in his response.)
die Verbindlichkeit (noun): Obligation, liability, courtesy
- “Er hat alle seine Verbindlichkeiten erfüllt.” (He has fulfilled all his obligations.)
- “Ihre Verbindlichkeit machte einen guten Eindruck.” (Her courtesy made a good impression.)
der Verbinder (noun): Connector, coupler
- “Der Elektriker benutzte einen Verbinder, um die Kabel zu verbinden.” (The electrician used a connector to join the cables.)
der Verbund (noun): Composite, compound, alliance
- “Der Verbund der Unternehmen stärkt ihre Marktposition.” (The alliance of the companies strengthens their market position.)
- “Ein Verbund aus verschiedenen Materialien macht das Produkt stabiler.” (A composite of different materials makes the product more stable.)
der Verbundstoff (noun): Composite material
- “Verbundstoffe werden häufig im Flugzeugbau verwendet.” (Composite materials are often used in aircraft construction.)
das Verbundsystem (noun): Integrated system
- “Das Verbundsystem der verschiedenen Abteilungen verbessert die Effizienz.” (The integrated system of the various departments improves efficiency.)
der Verbundwerkstoff (noun): Composite material
- “Verbundwerkstoffe sind in der Automobilindustrie sehr beliebt.” (Composite materials are very popular in the automotive industry.)
The German verb “verbinden” is rich in meaning and application, ranging from physical connections to abstract associations. Its versatility is reflected in the numerous related words that expand its usage in various contexts. Understanding “verbinden” and its derivatives provides deeper insight into the nuances of the German language.