German word

reformieren

Pronunciation

IPA/ʁefɔʁˈmiːʁən/

Meaning

  • verbreform

Example

Die Regierung reformiert das Rentensystem.

The government is reforming the pension system.

Illustration for reformieren (reform)

More examples

Die NGO plant, ihre internen Strukturen zu reformieren.

The NGO plans to reform its internal structures.

Core concept

An established institution receives a fundamental redesign rather than a minor repair.

Common phrases

  • reformieren den Arbeitsmarkt

    reform the labor market

  • reformieren eine Partei

    reform a party

Similar words

ändern: A change to something's nature or form.
verbessern: An improvement in something's condition or performance.
erneuern: Replacement of something outdated with something new.
revidieren: A review and correction of a text or rule's content.

Definition in German

Etwas Bestehendes grundlegend ändern, damit es besser funktioniert.

Word origin

The verb is a borrowing based on Latin reformare, with re- indicating renewed formation or reshaping.

Usage tips

  • For ordinary editing of a text, überarbeiten is usually more natural than reformieren, which often concerns systems or institutions.

Other meanings

  • reorganizeverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Reformpolitikreform policynoun
  • Reformerreformernoun

Word lists with this word