German Conversation · Level 112
45 words
German word
anzünden
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈanˌtsʏndən/
Meaning
- verblight
Example
Er zündet die Kerze an.
He lights the candle.
More examples
Wir zünden den Grill an.
We light the grill.
Core concept
Fire is transferred from a lighter or match to a target, so the target begins burning or gives off light.
Common phrases
den Kamin anzünden
light the fireplace
den Grill anzünden
light the grill
ein Lagerfeuer anzünden
light a campfire
Similar words
anmachen: To turn on a light or electrical appliance using a switch or button.
einschalten: To turn on a powered device by operating its switch or plug.
zünden: To ignite fireworks or an engine through a fuse or ignition system.
Definition in German
Ein Feuer oder eine Flamme an etwas bringen; oft transitiv und im Satz trennbar verwendet.
Word origin
The verb is formed from an- and the inherited Germanic verb zünden, with an- directing the ignition toward a target.
Usage tips
- Anzünden normally refers to fire-producing objects such as candles, grills, or cigarettes, not to switching on an electric light; einschalten is usual there.