01
ausgeben
to spend
To use money to buy goods or services.
example
Im Urlaub haben wir viel Geld für gutes Essen ausgegeben.
On vacation, we spent a lot of money on good food.
ausgeben
to spend / to distribute
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Ausgeben' (to spend / to distribute) is a separable verb. The prefix 'aus' stands at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses, the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er gibt sein ganzes Taschengeld für Videospiele aus.
He spends all his pocket money on video games.
Sentence structure with "für"
When you use money for something specific, you use the preposition 'für' (for) followed by the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Wie viel Geld möchtest du für das Geschenk ausgeben?
How much money do you want to spend on the gift?
Reflexive with "als"
In the meaning 'vortäuschen' (to pretend), the verb is always reflexive ('sich ausgeben' — to pass oneself off) and is combined with the preposition 'als' (as). The person who is deceiving others is the subject.
EXAMPLE
Der Dieb gab sich als Polizist aus.
The thief passed himself off as a police officer.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'verteilen' (to distribute), 'ausgeben' is often used in official or organized contexts. Typical objects are food and drinks, documents, tickets, or warnings.
EXAMPLE
Die Helfer geben warmes Essen an die Bedürftigen aus.
The helpers distribute warm food to those in need.
Compare with
ausgeben vs verdienen
to earn / deserve
'verdienen' and 'ausgeben' form a clear contrast when talking about money. With 'verdienen', you receive money, usually through work. With 'ausgeben', you use money to buy or pay for something. So the words describe two different directions: money comes to a person, or money goes away from a person. When it is about income, 'verdienen' fits. When it is about costs, purchases, or payments, 'ausgeben' fits.
ausgeben
Am Montag gab er viel Geld für neue Möbel aus.
On Monday, he spent a lot of money on new furniture.
verdienen
Sie verdient genug, um ihre Miete selbst zu bezahlen.
She earns enough to pay her rent herself.
In real life
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