01
der Bedarf
need / demand
The necessity or requirement for something; the amount of something that is needed.
example
In der Region besteht ein großer Bedarf an Ärzten.
There is a great need for doctors in the region.
der Bedarf
need
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Bedarf' (need) belongs to a word family around the topic of 'brauchen' (to need). Related words are the formal verb 'bedürfen' (to require/need something) and the adjective 'bedürftig' (poor, dependent on help).
EXAMPLE
Dieses Projekt bedarf einer sorgfältigen Planung.
This project requires careful planning.
Preposition and case
When you want to express what there is a need for, you use the preposition 'an' followed by the dative. A very common formulation is 'Bedarf an etwas haben' (to have a need for something) or 'es besteht Bedarf an etwas' (there is a need for something).
EXAMPLE
Die Firma hat großen Bedarf an qualifizierten Mitarbeitern.
The company has a great need for qualified employees.
Typical verbs
'Bedarf' (need) is often combined with certain verbs to express how one deals with a necessity. Typical phrases are 'Bedarf haben' (to have a need), 'den Bedarf decken' (to meet/cover the need), and 'den Bedarf ermitteln' (to determine the need).
EXAMPLE
Mit den neuen Lieferungen können wir den Bedarf für die nächste Woche decken.
With the new deliveries, we can meet the need for the next week.
Fixed expression
The expression 'bei Bedarf' (as needed) is a fixed phrase and means 'when necessary' or 'if required'. You often find it in instructions, recipes, or on medicine packaging.
EXAMPLE
Fügen Sie bei Bedarf noch etwas Salz hinzu.
Add a little more salt as needed.
Compare with
Bedarf vs Wunsch
wish
'der Wunsch' and 'der Bedarf' can both express that someone wants to have or get something. The difference is important: a 'Wunsch' comes more from a personal feeling or from a request. A 'Bedarf' is something that is really needed or necessary. That is why 'Bedarf' sounds more factual, for example in work, planning, shopping, or help. The words can be confused because both can have to do with a lack or a goal. 'Auf Wunsch' means: if someone wants it or upon request. 'Bei Bedarf' means: if it is necessary or as needed.
Bedarf
Wenn bei den Kindern Bedarf besteht, bietet die Schule zusätzliche Hilfe an.
If the children need it, the school offers additional help.
Wunsch
Mias Wunsch ist, im Sommer ans Meer zu fahren.
Mia's wish is to go to the seaside in the summer.
In real life
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