German Conversation · Level 89
59 words
German word
erfinden
Pronunciation
IPA/ɛɐ̯ˈfɪndən/
Meaning
- verbinvent
Example
Er hat das Rad erfunden.
He invented the wheel.
More examples
Viele Forscher versuchen, neue Geräte zu erfinden.
Many researchers are trying to invent new devices.
Core concept
A mind brings a new device, method, idea, or story into existence through imagination.
Common phrases
ein Gerät erfinden
invent a device
eine Ausrede erfinden
make up an excuse
eine Geschichte erfinden
make up a story
Similar words
entwickeln: Develop a technology or product through stages until it becomes practical.
ausdenken: Think up a new idea or story.
bauen: Construct a building or machine from materials or components.
entdecken: Discover something or a place that had not been confirmed or found.
Definition in German
Etwas Neues, besonders ein Gerät, ein Verfahren oder eine Idee, schaffen oder entwickeln; kann auch bedeuten, eine Geschichte oder Behauptung auszudenken.
Word origin
Erfinden comes from Middle High German ervinden, formed from er- and finden, and developed from finding something out to creating something new or making something up.
Usage tips
- Erfinden covers both genuine invention and fabrication, whereas entdecken refers to finding something that already exists.