01
aufschneiden
to cut open
To open something with a knife or scissors, or to cut it into slices.
example
Könntest du bitte den Kuchen aufschneiden?
Could you please cut the cake?
aufschneiden
to cut open / to brag
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufschneiden' (to cut open / to brag) is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich schneide schnell den Apfel auf.
I'll quickly cut open the apple.
Typical collocations
In the literal meaning, 'aufschneiden' (to cut open/cut) is often used for food. Typical objects are 'Brot' (bread), 'einen Kuchen' (a cake), 'eine Melone' (a melon), or 'einen Braten' (a roast).
EXAMPLE
Wer möchte das erste Stück vom Geburtstagskuchen aufschneiden?
Who would like to cut the first piece of the birthday cake?
Register and usage
In the meaning 'prahlen' (to brag), 'aufschneiden' (to brag) is colloquial. In this case, it can also be used without an object.
EXAMPLE
Er schneidet gerne mit seinem neuen Auto auf.
He likes to show off with his new car.
Compare with
aufschneiden vs öffnen
to open
'öffnen' and 'aufschneiden' can both mean that something is opened. 'öffnen' is neutral and general. You can open a door, a bottle, a bag, or a book. 'aufschneiden' is used when you use a knife, scissors, or another sharp tool. It fits, for example, with a package, a bread roll, or in medicine. Learners may confuse the words because the result is similar: afterward, something is open. The important difference is the method. If you cut, 'aufschneiden' is more precise; without cutting, you usually use 'öffnen'.
aufschneiden
Frau Lange schneidet das Paket mit einer Schere auf.
Ms. Lange cuts the package open with scissors.
öffnen
Er öffnet den Rucksack, aber findet sein Handy nicht.
He opens the backpack but can't find his phone.
In real life
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