01
anschalten
to switch on
To put an electrical device, a machine, or a light into operation by pressing or flipping a switch.
example
Kannst du bitte das Licht anschalten? Es wird dunkel.
Can you please switch on the light? It's getting dark.
anschalten
to switch on / to call in
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Anschalten' is a separable verb. The prefix 'an' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich schalte kurz den Fernseher an.
I'll switch on the TV for a moment.
Context clue
The object reveals the meaning. If it is an electrical device (light, radio), it means 'einschalten' (to switch on). If it is a person or institution (lawyer, police), it means 'hinzuziehen' (to call in) or 'informieren' (to inform).
EXAMPLE
Schaltest du bitte die Kaffeemaschine an?
Will you please switch on the coffee machine?
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'in Betrieb nehmen' (to put into operation), 'anschalten' (to switch on) is used with all kinds of electrical devices. Common combinations are: 'das Licht anschalten' (to switch on the light), 'den Computer anschalten' (to switch on the computer), 'die Heizung anschalten' (to switch on the heating).
EXAMPLE
Bevor ich mit der Arbeit beginne, schalte ich immer den Computer an.
Before I start working, I always switch on the computer.
Typical collocations
When it is about bringing in help, 'anschalten' (to call in) is often combined with people or institutions that have authority. Typical examples are: 'einen Anwalt anschalten' (to call in a lawyer), 'die Polizei anschalten' (to call in the police), or 'die Behörden anschalten' (to contact the authorities).
EXAMPLE
Bei rechtlichen Problemen ist es ratsam, frühzeitig einen Anwalt anzuschalten.
In legal problems, it is advisable to call in a lawyer early on.
Compare with
anschalten vs informieren
to inform
'informieren' and 'anschalten' can both mean that you tell someone about something. The difference lies in the purpose. 'informieren' is general: you give someone information. 'anschalten' is used when you bring in a responsible person or organization so that they can deal with a problem. This often sounds somewhat more official or serious. For example, you inform a colleague about a change; you call in the police, the landlord, or an authority when help or a decision is needed.
anschalten
Wenn der Lärm morgen wieder so stark ist, schaltet er die Hausverwaltung ein.
If the noise is that bad again tomorrow, he will call in the property management.
informieren
Die Schule informiert die Eltern über den Ausflug.
The school informs the parents about the trip.
In real life
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