to enable
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to enable
To give someone the necessary skills, knowledge, or authorization to do something specific.
Der abgeschlossene Masterstudiengang befähigt sie zur Aufnahme einer Promotion.
The completed master's program enables her to begin a doctorate.
The verb is derived from the adjective 'fähig' (capable). The prefix 'be-' turns it into a verb with the meaning 'to make someone capable'.
Ein guter Lehrer kann seine Schüler zu erstaunlichen Leistungen befähigen.
A good teacher can enable their students to achieve amazing things.
'Befähigen' (to enable) is always used with the preposition 'zu' + dative. The structure is: someone (subject) enables someone (accusative) to do something / for something (dative).
Dieses Zertifikat befähigt Sie zur Arbeit im Ausland.
This certificate enables you to work abroad.
The prefix 'be-' is inseparable. It remains firmly attached to the verb stem in all conjugated forms and sentence types.
Die Ausbildung hat ihn dazu befähigt, das Unternehmen zu leiten.
The training enabled him to lead the company.
This word belongs to formal language. It is often found in official documents, certificates, and educational or legal contexts.
Der Führerschein befähigt zum Führen eines Kraftfahrzeugs.
A driver's license authorizes the holder to operate a motor vehicle.
to enable
'ermöglichen' and 'befähigen' can both express that someone is able to do something. 'ermöglichen' is more general: a situation, help, or a means makes something possible. It does not have to be about a person's abilities. 'befähigen' is used when a person becomes able to do something through knowledge, practice, training, or authorization. Learners may therefore confuse the words when talking about learning or work. In practical terms: a room, money, or time can enable something; a course or training can enable someone to do something.
Die Schulung befähigt Mehmet dazu, die neue Maschine sicher zu bedienen.
The training enables Mehmet to operate the new machine safely.
Ein Stipendium ermöglicht Marie, im Ausland zu studieren.
A scholarship enables Marie to study abroad.