01
bereichern
to enrich
To make something more valuable, more varied, or richer in content.
example
Ein Auslandsjahr kann das Leben ungemein bereichern.
A year abroad can enrich your life tremendously.
bereichern
to enrich
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The verb 'bereichern' (to enrich) is formed from the adjective 'reich' (rich). The prefix 'be-' often turns an adjective into a verb meaning 'to make something ...'. So 'bereichern' literally means 'to make rich'.
EXAMPLE
Ihre Ideen haben die Diskussion sehr bereichert.
Her ideas greatly enriched the discussion.
Context clue
The difference between the meanings is crucial: the reflexive form 'sich bereichern' (to enrich oneself) is always negative and means to obtain money illegally or immorally. The non-reflexive form 'bereichern' (to enrich) is positive and means to make something more valuable.
EXAMPLE
Diese Reise wird dein Leben bereichern.
This trip will enrich your life.
Inseparable verb
The prefix 'be-' is inseparable. It remains firmly attached to the verb stem in all tenses and sentence constructions.
EXAMPLE
Er bereicherte seine Sammlung mit einem seltenen Stück.
He enriched his collection with a rare piece.
Sentence structure and usage pattern
In the negative meaning 'sich bereichern' (to enrich oneself), the preposition 'an' with the dative is almost always used to name the source of the unlawful gain.
EXAMPLE
Man wirft ihm vor, sich am Erbe seiner Tante bereichert zu haben.
He is accused of having enriched himself from his aunt's inheritance.
Compare with
bereichern vs verbessern
to improve
'verbessern' and 'bereichern' can both make something more positive. 'verbessern' means that something works better, has better quality, or has fewer problems. 'bereichern' more often means that something becomes more valuable, more interesting, or more varied. Training can improve performance; a new topic can enrich a course. 'bereichern' is especially suitable when something brings additional ideas, experiences, or variety.
bereichern
Die Geschichten der Kinder bereichern den Unterricht mit vielen neuen Ideen.
The children's stories enrich the lesson with many new ideas.
verbessern
Herr Wolf verbessert heute den Ablauf für den nächsten Termin.
Mr. Wolf is improving the process today for the next appointment.
In real life
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