01
artikulieren
to articulate
To pronounce words and sounds clearly and intelligibly.
example
Der Logopäde hilft dem Kind, die S-Laute richtig zu artikulieren.
The speech therapist helps the child articulate the S sounds correctly.
artikulieren
to articulate
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Artikulieren' (to articulate) is a verb ending in '-ieren'. Such verbs often come from other languages, are conjugated regularly, and always form the past participle with '-t' (artikuliert).
EXAMPLE
Er hat seine Meinung in der Diskussion sehr klar artikuliert.
He articulated his opinion very clearly in the discussion.
Sentence structure
The verb 'artikulieren' (to articulate) is transitive and usually requires an accusative object. You ask: 'Was artikuliert jemand?' (What does someone articulate?). The answer is in the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Sängerin muss jeden Ton präzise artikulieren.
The singer has to articulate every note precisely.
Register
'Artikulieren' (to articulate) is a word used in elevated language. It sounds more formal and educated than everyday verbs such as 'sagen' (to say) or 'aussprechen' (to pronounce / express).
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker versuchte, seine komplexe Strategie verständlich zu artikulieren.
The politician tried to articulate his complex strategy in an understandable way.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about sounds, pronunciation, and clarity, the phonetic meaning is intended. If it is about thoughts, feelings, or opinions, the abstract meaning of expressing something is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Schauspieler lernte, seine Worte auf der Bühne laut und deutlich zu artikulieren.
The actor learned to articulate his words loudly and clearly on stage.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'Gedanken äußern' (to express thoughts), the verb is often combined with abstract nouns such as 'Wünsche' (wishes), 'Kritik' (criticism), 'Bedenken' (concerns), or 'einen Standpunkt' (a point of view). The reflexive form 'sich artikulieren' (to express oneself) is also common.
EXAMPLE
Es ist wichtig, konstruktive Kritik respektvoll zu artikulieren.
It is important to articulate constructive criticism respectfully.
Compare with
artikulieren vs sprechen
to speak
'sprechen' and 'artikulieren' are both connected with language. 'sprechen' is the normal word for someone saying words or talking. 'artikulieren' is more specific: it can mean pronouncing sounds and words clearly. It can also mean putting thoughts or feelings clearly into words. In everyday speech, you usually use 'sprechen'. 'artikulieren' fits when clarity or precise wording is important.
artikulieren
Nach der Operation muss der Patient langsam und deutlich artikulieren.
After the operation, the patient has to articulate slowly and clearly.
sprechen
Bitte sprich etwas lauter, ich kann dich im Zug kaum hören.
Please speak a little louder; I can hardly hear you on the train.
In real life
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