01
anfertigen
to make
To make or produce something, often according to a specific plan, to order, or with special care.
example
Der Schneider wird Ihnen einen Maßanzug anfertigen.
The tailor will make you a custom suit.
anfertigen
to make / produce
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Anfertigen' (to make/produce) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an' comes at the end in a main clause, while in a subordinate clause it remains attached to the verb.
EXAMPLE
Der Tischler fertigt einen speziellen Schrank für uns an.
The carpenter is making a special cabinet for us.
Register and style
'Anfertigen' (to make/produce) is a rather formal word. It is often used in professional, official, or business contexts, especially when referring to commissioned work.
EXAMPLE
Wir fertigen Schmuckstücke nach individuellen Kundenwünschen an.
We make pieces of jewelry according to individual customer wishes.
Typical collocations
In this meaning, 'anfertigen' (to make) is often used for custom-made or handmade products. Typical phrases are: 'einen Anzug anfertigen' (to make a suit), 'ein Möbelstück anfertigen' (to make a piece of furniture), 'ein Porträt anfertigen' (to make a portrait).
EXAMPLE
Sie ließ sich ein exklusives Abendkleid für die Gala anfertigen.
She had an exclusive evening dress made for the gala.
Typical collocations
When referring to documents, 'anfertigen' (to prepare/make) is often used in combinations such as 'ein Protokoll anfertigen' (to prepare minutes), 'eine Skizze anfertigen' (to make a sketch), or 'eine Übersetzung anfertigen' (to prepare a translation).
EXAMPLE
Der Architekt fertigte schnell eine erste Skizze des Hauses an.
The architect quickly made an initial sketch of the house.
Compare with
anfertigen vs machen
to do / make
'machen' and 'anfertigen' can both mean that something is created or produced. 'machen' is the general everyday word and fits in many different situations. 'anfertigen' sounds more precise and often somewhat more formal. It is especially appropriate when something is made according to a plan, to order, or with care, for example a piece of furniture, a drawing, or a copy. In conversation, people often say 'machen'. When the exact production process is important, 'anfertigen' is more suitable.
anfertigen
Der Tischler fertigt einen Schrank nach den Wünschen der Kundin an.
The carpenter makes a cabinet according to the customer's wishes.
machen
Für den Kurs hat Lisa ein kleines Plakat gemacht.
Lisa made a small poster for the course.
In real life
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