01
auslösen
to trigger
To be the reason or cause that something starts or happens; to set something in motion.
example
Der laute Knall hat den Feueralarm ausgelöst.
The loud bang triggered the fire alarm.
auslösen
to trigger / release
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Auslösen' (to trigger / release) is a separable verb. The prefix 'aus' is placed at the end of the sentence in a main clause. In subordinate clauses, the entire verb form stands at the end.
EXAMPLE
Ein kleiner Funke löste das Feuer aus.
A small spark triggered the fire.
Word structure
The verb is made up of the prefix 'aus-' and the verb 'lösen' (to loosen / solve). The prefix 'aus-' indicates here that something begins or is set in motion out of a resting state.
EXAMPLE
Die falsche Bewegung löste die Alarmanlage aus.
The wrong movement triggered the alarm system.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'etwas in Gang setzen' (to set something in motion), 'auslösen' (to trigger) is often combined with events or processes. Typical objects are: an alarm, a debate, a crisis, or a chain reaction.
EXAMPLE
Der politische Skandal löste eine landesweite Debatte aus.
The political scandal triggered a nationwide debate.
Triggering feelings
When feelings are caused, the affected person is often named with the preposition 'bei' and the dative. The structure is: something triggers a feeling in someone.
EXAMPLE
Der Film löste bei den Zuschauern großes Mitgefühl aus.
The film triggered great sympathy among the viewers.
Technical context
This meaning is typical for technical devices. It is used, for example, for cameras, flashes, traps, or other mechanisms that are activated.
EXAMPLE
Drücken Sie hier, um den Blitz der Kamera auszulösen.
Press here to release the camera flash.
Compare with
auslösen vs bringen
to bring
'bringen' and 'auslösen' can both express that something has a consequence. 'bringen' is more general and often fits when a result comes about, for example calm, benefits, or problems. 'auslösen' means more specifically that something begins or is set in motion. This can be an event, a reaction, a feeling, or even a mechanism. 'auslösen' therefore sounds more precise when the starting point of a reaction is involved. 'bringen' sounds more natural when you simply want to emphasize the result.
auslösen
Der Rauch löste im Flur den Alarm aus.
The smoke triggered the alarm in the hallway.
bringen
Das Gespräch mit der Ärztin brachte meiner Mutter viel Sicherheit.
The conversation with the doctor gave my mother a lot of reassurance.
In real life
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