01
absolvieren
to complete
To successfully finish a training program, degree program, exam, or course.
example
Er hat sein Abitur mit sehr guten Noten absolviert.
He completed his Abitur with very good grades.
absolvieren
to complete
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
Although the verb begins with 'ab-', 'absolvieren' (to complete) is an inseparable verb. The prefix remains firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms.
EXAMPLE
Sie absolvierte ihr Praktikum in einem großen Unternehmen.
She completed her internship at a large company.
Sentence structure with accusative
'Absolvieren' (to complete) is a transitive verb and always requires an accusative object. You always complete 'something'.
EXAMPLE
Nächstes Jahr möchte ich einen Sprachkurs absolvieren.
Next year I would like to complete a language course.
Register
The word 'absolvieren' (to complete) belongs more to formal or written language. It sounds educated and is often used in official contexts such as certificates or résumés.
EXAMPLE
Der Bewerber hat mehrere Fortbildungen absolviert.
The applicant has completed several professional development courses.
Typical collocations
In the context of education and careers, 'absolvieren' (to complete) is often combined with 'ein Studium' (a degree program), 'eine Ausbildung' (a training program), 'ein Praktikum' (an internship), or 'eine Prüfung' (an exam).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat ihre Ausbildung zur Krankenschwester erfolgreich absolviert.
She successfully completed her training as a nurse.
Typical collocations
When referring to scheduled activities, 'absolvieren' (to complete) is often used with 'ein Training' (a training session), 'ein Programm' (a program), or 'einen Auftritt' (a performance).
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft muss vor dem Spiel noch ein hartes Training absolvieren.
The team still has to complete a tough training session before the game.
Compare with
absolvieren vs bestehen
to pass / consist / exist
'bestehen' and 'absolvieren' can both have to do with exams, courses, or training programs. 'bestehen' emphasizes the result: you were successful and passed the exam. 'absolvieren' emphasizes more that you complete or finish something, for example a course, a degree program, an exam, or even a program. Learners may confuse the words because both occur in the context of exams. The important point is: you pass an exam when you have enough points. You complete a course or training program when you do it through to the end.
absolvieren
Mehmet absolviert im Sommer einen Computerkurs.
Mehmet is completing a computer course in the summer.
bestehen
Lisa hat die Fahrprüfung beim zweiten Versuch bestanden.
Lisa passed the driving test on her second attempt.
In real life
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