German word

verhandeln

Pronunciation

IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈhandl̩n/

Meaning

  • verbnegotiate

Example

Wir verhandeln morgen über den Vertrag.

We will negotiate the contract tomorrow.

Illustration for verhandeln (negotiate)

More examples

Der Chef muss mit dem Lieferanten verhandeln.

The boss has to negotiate with the supplier.

Core concept

A matter is worked through in a formal discussion, with each side presenting its position until terms or a decision take shape.

Common phrases

  • verhandeln mit dem Kunden

    negotiate with the customer

  • verhandeln um den Preis

    negotiate over the price

Similar words

vereinbaren: Reach mutual agreement on a time, condition, or other detail.
abmachen: Agree informally on a plan or promise through conversation.
feilschen: Negotiate over the price in an effort to pay less.

Definition in German

Angebote austauschen und Bedingungen so anpassen, dass beide Seiten zu einer Vereinbarung kommen

Word origin

The word is formed from handeln, meaning to act or trade, with the prefix ver-, whose combination came to mean dealing with matters and negotiating.

Usage tips

  • In legal contexts, vor Gericht verhandeln means that a court hears a case, not that the court bargains with someone.

Other meanings

  • discussverb
  • hearverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Verhandlungnegotiationnoun
  • verhandlungsbereitready to negotiateadjective

Word lists with this word