German word

erforschen

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛɐ̯ˈfɔɐ̯ʃn̩/

Meaning

  • verbresearch

Example

Die Wissenschaftler erforschen ein neues Phänomen.

The scientists are researching a new phenomenon.

Illustration for erforschen (research)

More examples

Das Team erforscht die Ursachen des Ausfalls.

The team is researching the causes of the failure.

Core concept

A scientist follows evidence through an unfamiliar field and brings its facts into view.

Common phrases

  • erforschen ein Phänomen

    research a phenomenon

  • erforschen die Ursachen

    research the causes

  • erforschen ein Gebiet

    research an area

Similar words

untersuchen: Examine something closely through observation or measurement to determine its condition or cause.
recherchieren: Find and organize needed information from documents and other sources.
forschen: Conduct sustained, methodical research into an academic question.
analysieren: Break down data or information to reveal its elements and relationships.

Definition in German

etwas systematisch und gründlich untersuchen, mit dem Ziel, neue Erkenntnisse zu gewinnen.

Word origin

Forschen comes from Middle High German vorschen, while erforschen adds the prefix er- to express reaching a result through inquiry.

Usage tips

  • In finite clauses, er- remains attached in erforschen, and its perfect form is hat erforscht.

Other meanings

  • investigateverb
  • exploreverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Erforschungresearchnoun
  • Erforschungsprojektresearch projectnoun
  • erforschbarresearchableadjective

Word lists with this word