German word

verhelfen

Pronunciation

IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈhɛlfn̩/

Meaning

  • verbhelp ___ obtain

Example

Der Makler verhalf ihnen zu einer günstigen Wohnung.

The broker helped them obtain an affordable apartment.

Illustration for verhelfen (help ___ obtain)

More examples

Die Stiftung verhalf dem Projekt zum Erfolg.

The foundation helped the project succeed.

Core concept

A helper opens a route that lets another person reach a better position or gain.

Common phrases

  • jemandem zu einer Lösung verhelfen

    help ___ arrive at a solution

  • einem Projekt zum Erfolg verhelfen

    help a project succeed

Similar words

helfen: Support someone by taking concrete helpful action.
ermöglichen: Enable something by arranging suitable conditions or resources.
verschaffen: Obtain and make available a needed item or piece of information.
vermitteln: Bring people or information together through an intermediary role.

Definition in German

Jemandem durch Kontakte oder Arrangements ermöglichen, einen Vorteil, eine Stelle oder eine Gelegenheit zu bekommen.

Word origin

Verhelfen is a German formation from ver- and helfen, with the combined verb focusing on the result achieved through help.

Usage tips

  • The verb is inseparable, so its finite forms include verhilft and verhalf, while the perfect uses hat verholfen.

Opposites

Related words

  • Verhelferfacilitatornoun

Word lists with this word