01
aufbrauchen
to use up
To use something completely so that none of it is left.
example
Wir sollten erst die alte Milch aufbrauchen, bevor wir eine neue Packung öffnen.
We should use up the old milk before we open a new carton.
aufbrauchen
to use up
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufbrauchen' (to use up) is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' goes at the end in a main clause. It intensifies the verb and here means 'completely' or 'to the end.'
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche heute den ganzen Zucker für den Kuchen auf.
I'm using up all the sugar today for the cake.
Context clue: reflexive
The difference between the meanings lies in the reflexive pronoun 'sich' (oneself). Without 'sich', it means to use up an object. With 'sich', it means to use up one's own energy or strength.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben den ganzen Saft aufgebracht.
We used up all the juice.
Typical objects
Typically, things that are consumed or stored in everyday life are 'aufgebraucht' (used up). These include 'Vorräte aufbrauchen' (to use up supplies), 'Geld aufbrauchen' (to use up money), or 'Lebensmittel aufbrauchen' (to use up food).
EXAMPLE
Vor dem Urlaub sollten wir alle Reste im Kühlschrank aufbrauchen.
Before the vacation, we should use up all the leftovers in the fridge.
Compare with
aufbrauchen vs erschöpfen
to exhaust / deplete
'erschöpfen' and 'aufbrauchen' can be very similar when something is used up completely. 'aufbrauchen' is the simpler and more everyday word, especially for concrete things like money, food, or supplies. 'erschöpfen' often sounds more formal and is frequently used for resources, possibilities, or strength. With people, 'erschöpfen' can mean to make someone very tired; 'sich aufbrauchen' is more about someone completely using up their strength over a longer period. The risk of confusion comes from the fact that both words describe the end of a supply or of someone's strength. In everyday language, 'aufbrauchen' is often more natural; for official or stronger statements, 'erschöpfen' is usually more suitable.
aufbrauchen
Adam kauft neue Hefte, weil er seine alten in der Prüfungsvorbereitung aufbraucht.
Adam buys new notebooks because he is using up his old ones while preparing for the exam.
erschöpfen
Die vielen Nachtschichten erschöpfen Luis immer mehr.
The many night shifts are exhausting Luis more and more.
In real life
Loading video examples...