01
aktualisieren
to update
To bring something up to date by adding or applying new information, data, or versions.
example
Du solltest dringend die Software deines Computers aktualisieren.
You should urgently update your computer's software.
aktualisieren
to update / refresh
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The verb is derived from the adjective 'aktuell' (current/up-to-date). The ending '-isieren' is a common way to form verbs and means 'to make something ...'. So 'aktualisieren' (to update) literally means 'to make current'.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss meine Kontaktdaten im System aktualisieren.
I need to update my contact details in the system.
Grammar pattern
Verbs ending in '-ieren' are always regular and form the past participle without 'ge-'. So it is 'hat aktualisiert' (has updated) and not 'hat geaktualisiert'.
EXAMPLE
Er hat sein Profilbild auf der Webseite aktualisiert.
He updated his profile picture on the website.
Typical collocations
In technical and digital contexts, 'aktualisieren' (to update) is often used with the following nouns: 'die Software' (the software), 'die Daten' (the data), 'die App' (the app), 'das Antivirenprogramm' (the antivirus program), or 'das Betriebssystem' (the operating system).
EXAMPLE
Vergiss nicht, deine Apps regelmäßig zu aktualisieren.
Don't forget to update your apps regularly.
Internet context
In the context of internet browsers, 'aktualisieren' (to refresh) means something like 'to reload'. You refresh 'die Webseite' (the webpage), 'den Tab' (the tab), or 'den Browser' (the browser) to see the latest content.
EXAMPLE
Aktualisiere mal die Seite, vielleicht sind die Ergebnisse schon online.
Refresh the page, maybe the results are already online.
Compare with
aktualisieren vs ergänzen
to add / supplement
'ergänzen' and 'aktualisieren' can both mean that you add something. You use 'ergänzen' when something is missing or when you give an additional piece of information. Afterward, the text, plan, or sentence is more complete. You use 'aktualisieren' when something is brought up to date, for example data, a list, a program, or a website. Learners may confuse the words because in both cases new information can be added. The important point is: you 'ergänzen' something missing, but you 'aktualisieren' something outdated.
aktualisieren
Herr Yilmaz aktualisiert jeden Morgen die Kundendaten.
Mr. Yilmaz updates the customer data every morning.
ergänzen
Sie hat den Bericht vor dem Termin um zwei wichtige Punkte ergänzt.
Before the appointment, she added two important points to the report.
In real life
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