Membel
German VERB C1 Rank 7744

bedürfen

to require

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Meanings

01

bedürfen

to require

To need something or make something necessary; an elevated and formal way of saying 'brauchen' (to need). The verb is typically used with the genitive.

example

Diese Angelegenheit bedarf einer sofortigen Klärung.

This matter requires immediate clarification.

Visual example for bedürfen: bedürfen

Usage tips

Compare with

near_synonym · confusable

bedürfen vs brauchen

to need

'brauchen' and 'bedürfen' can both express that something is necessary. The difference is mainly in style. 'brauchen' is normal, direct, and appropriate in everyday language. 'bedürfen' is elevated and formal; you are more likely to read it in official texts or hear it in very factual language. In addition, 'bedürfen' is typically used with the genitive, for example 'der Zustimmung bedürfen' (to require approval). Learners may confuse the words because the basic idea is the same. In conversation, 'brauchen' is almost always more natural; in formal texts, 'bedürfen' can sound more precise or more appropriate.

Visual example for brauchen
bedürfen

Diese Änderung bedarf der Zustimmung des Vermieters.

This change requires the landlord's approval.

brauchen

Die Gruppe braucht für die Wanderung warme Kleidung.

The group needs warm clothing for the hike.

Open full lesson: brauchen →

In real life

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