01
aufwerfen
to raise
To put forward or bring up a question, problem, or topic for discussion.
example
Die Studie wirft wichtige Fragen zur Zukunft der Arbeit auf.
The study raises important questions about the future of work.
aufwerfen
to raise / pile up
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufwerfen' is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' goes at the end of the main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Diese Diskussion wirft viele neue Probleme auf.
This discussion raises many new problems.
Context clue
The meaning of 'aufwerfen' depends heavily on the object. Abstract nouns like 'Frage' (question), 'Problem' (problem), or 'Thema' (topic) point to the figurative meaning 'to bring up'. Concrete nouns like 'Erde' (soil) or 'Sand' (sand) point to the literal meaning 'to pile up'.
EXAMPLE
Der Artikel wirft die Frage nach der Verantwortung auf.
The article raises the question of responsibility.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'aufwerfen' is often combined with intellectual or social topics. Typical phrases are 'eine Frage aufwerfen' (to raise a question), 'ein Problem aufwerfen' (to raise a problem), or 'ein Thema aufwerfen' (to raise a topic).
EXAMPLE
In der Sitzung wurden einige heikle Punkte aufgeworfen.
Some sensitive points were raised in the meeting.
Reflexive construction
The phrase 'sich aufwerfen zu' is reflexive and uses the preposition 'zu' with the dative. It describes someone claiming a role for themselves, usually in a negative, presumptuous way. The structure is: subject + wirft sich (accusative) + zum/zur [role in the dative] + auf.
EXAMPLE
Er hat sich zum Sprecher der ganzen Gruppe aufgeworfen, obwohl ihn niemand gewählt hat.
He set himself up as the spokesperson for the whole group, even though no one elected him.
Compare with
aufwerfen vs stellen
to put / to set
'stellen' and 'aufwerfen' can both have to do with questions. 'Eine Frage stellen' means simply that you ask someone something. It is neutral and very common in everyday language. 'Eine Frage aufwerfen' means more that a topic or problem comes up for discussion. It sounds more formal and is especially suitable in conversations, texts, or discussions about a topic. Learners may confuse the words because both are used with 'Frage' (question). Memory tip: You ask a person a question with 'stellen', but a topic or problem raises a question with 'aufwerfen'.
aufwerfen
Yusuf möchte beim Elternabend die Frage aufwerfen, wie die Kinder besser unterstützt werden können.
Yusuf wants to raise the question at the parents' evening of how the children can be better supported.
stellen
Wegen der neuen Regeln hat der Vater in der Schule eine Frage gestellt.
Because of the new rules, the father asked a question at the school.
In real life
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