German Conversation · Level 22
89 words
German word
bauen
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈbaʊ̯ən/
Meaning
- verbbuild
Example
Wir bauen ein Haus.
We are building a house.
More examples
Die Firma baut eine Brücke.
The company is building a bridge.
Core concept
A foundation grows through added parts into a usable building, structure, or larger whole.
Common phrases
ein Haus bauen
build a house
eine Brücke bauen
build a bridge
ein Möbelstück bauen
build a piece of furniture
Similar words
aufbauen: To create a structure or system by combining separate parts or elements.
renovieren: To repair and update an old building or room for continued use.
montieren: To assemble a machine or piece of furniture by fitting its parts together.
errichten: To erect a new building or monument on a prepared foundation.
Definition in German
bauen bedeutet, mit Materialien ein Gebäude oder eine feste Konstruktion zu errichten.
Word origin
Bauen is an inherited Germanic verb related to Old High German būan, whose earlier sense was living or dwelling before construction became central.
Usage tips
- In auf etwas bauen, the verb means to rely on something rather than to construct on it, so context distinguishes the figurative use.