01
aufbrechen
to set off
To start on one's way; to begin a trip, hike, or march.
example
Wir müssen früh aufbrechen, wenn wir vor Einbruch der Dunkelheit ankommen wollen.
We have to set off early if we want to arrive before nightfall.
aufbrechen
to set off / to break open
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 04
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufbrechen' is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' stands at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Wir brechen morgen bei Sonnenaufgang auf.
We are setting off tomorrow at sunrise.
Auxiliary verb: sein or haben
The perfect tense is formed with 'sein' (to be) when it is about movement (starting a journey) or a change of state (a bud opens). For an active action with an object (opening a door), 'haben' (to have) is used.
EXAMPLE
Die Wandergruppe ist schon aufgebrochen.
The hiking group has already set off.
Context clue
When 'aufbrechen' is used without an object, it usually means 'sich auf den Weg machen' (to set off). If it has an object, it often means 'gewaltsam öffnen' (to break open by force) with concrete objects, or 'verändern' (to change) with abstract terms.
EXAMPLE
Die Bergsteiger brechen in einer Stunde auf.
The mountaineers are setting off in an hour.
Abstract use
In a figurative, abstract meaning, 'aufbrechen' is often used with nouns such as 'Strukturen' (structures), 'Regeln' (rules), 'Denkmuster' (patterns of thought), or 'Traditionen' (traditions) to describe modernization or dissolution.
EXAMPLE
Die neue Chefin will die starren Hierarchien im Unternehmen aufbrechen.
The new boss wants to break up the rigid hierarchies in the company.
Compare with
aufbrechen vs gehen
to go
'gehen' and 'aufbrechen' can both mean that you leave a place and move toward a destination. 'gehen' is very general and fits many everyday situations: you go home, to work, or out of the room. 'aufbrechen' sounds more purposeful and emphasizes the beginning of a route, a trip, or a longer undertaking. It is often used when several people set off by vehicle or on foot and there is a plan behind it. In everyday language, 'gehen' is usually more neutral, while 'aufbrechen' is a bit more deliberate and often more formal, solemn, or organized.
aufbrechen
Am frühen Morgen brechen wir zu unserer Wanderung auf.
Early in the morning, we set off on our hike.
gehen
Clara geht nach dem Gespräch zur Bushaltestelle.
After the conversation, Clara goes to the bus stop.
In real life
Loading video examples...