01
begeistern
to inspire
To create great joy, enthusiasm, or admiration for something in someone.
example
Mit seiner Rede konnte er das gesamte Publikum begeistern.
With his speech, he was able to inspire the entire audience.
begeistern
to inspire / enthuse
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'begeistern' is related to the noun 'der Geist' (spirit/mind). Literally, it means to breathe 'spirit' or 'liveliness' into someone and thus awaken enthusiasm.
EXAMPLE
Seine Ideen haben eine ganze Generation begeistert.
His ideas inspired an entire generation.
Transitive vs. reflexive
There are two important sentence patterns: 'Etwas begeistert jemanden' (something inspires someone / excites someone) and 'Jemand begeistert sich für etwas' (someone becomes enthusiastic about something). Pay attention to the difference between the accusative object and the reflexive form with 'für'.
EXAMPLE
Der Film hat mich total begeistert.
The film totally inspired me.
Participle as adjective
The past participle 'begeistert' is very often used as an adjective, often in the fixed phrase 'begeistert sein von etwas (Dativ)' (to be enthusiastic about something).
EXAMPLE
Die Kritiker waren von dem neuen Album begeistert.
The critics were enthusiastic about the new album.
Inseparable verb
The prefix 'be-' is inseparable. It remains firmly attached to the verb stem in all conjugated forms and sentence positions.
EXAMPLE
Er versucht, seine Schüler für das Thema zu begeistern.
He tries to get his students excited about the topic.
Compare with
begeistern vs freuen
to look forward / to be pleased
'freuen' and 'begeistern' both have to do with positive feelings. 'freuen' is more general and fits many everyday situations: you can be pleased about a message or look forward to a meeting. 'begeistern' is stronger. It means not only joy, but also great interest, energy, or admiration. Something can inspire someone, or you can be enthusiastic about something. If the feeling is simply pleasant, 'freuen' sounds more natural. If someone is really swept up by something, 'begeistern' fits better.
begeistern
Wir begeistern uns gerade sehr für das Fotografieren.
We are really enthusiastic about photography right now.
freuen
Das Kind freut sich, weil der Termin beim Arzt gut verlaufen ist.
The child is happy because the doctor's appointment went well.
In real life
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