01
betrieben
powered
Driven or kept running by a particular energy source or mechanism.
example
Die alte Mühle wird heute elektrisch betrieben.
The old mill is powered electrically today.
betrieben
powered / operated
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Betrieben' (powered/operated) is the past participle of the verb 'betreiben' (to operate/run). It is very often used like an adjective to describe a noun more precisely.
EXAMPLE
Die mit Wasserkraft betriebene Anlage ist sehr umweltfreundlich.
The facility powered by hydropower is very environmentally friendly.
Context clue
The preposition reveals the meaning: 'betrieben mit' (powered by/with) describes the energy source, while 'betrieben von' (operated by) names the person or organization that runs something.
EXAMPLE
Die Heizung wird mit Gas betrieben.
The heating system is powered by gas.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'angetrieben' (powered), the word is often combined with energy sources. Common forms are: 'elektrisch betrieben' (electrically powered), 'solar betrieben' (solar-powered), 'mit Gas betrieben' (powered by gas), or 'mit Atomkraft betrieben' (powered by nuclear energy).
EXAMPLE
Immer mehr Fahrzeuge werden rein elektrisch betrieben.
More and more vehicles are powered purely electrically.
Typical collocations
When it is about running a business or organization, typical combinations are: 'staatlich betrieben' (state-operated), 'privat betrieben' (privately operated), or 'von einer Familie betrieben' (family-operated).
EXAMPLE
Der Nationalpark wird staatlich betrieben und geschützt.
The national park is state-operated and protected.
Compare with
betrieben vs unterhalten
to converse / entertain / maintain
'unterhalten' and 'betrieben' can both have to do with facilities, buildings, or services. 'unterhalten' tends to emphasize that something is cared for, paid for, and kept in good condition. 'betrieben' more often describes who runs, organizes, or keeps something operating, for example a business, a home, or a facility. The words can be confused when an organization is responsible for something. In practical terms: you 'unterhält' something so that it is preserved; something is 'betrieben' when it is actively run or used.
betrieben
Das kleine Museum wird von einem Verein betrieben.
The small museum is operated by an association.
unterhalten
Die Stadt unterhält den alten Park, damit Familien ihn weiter nutzen können.
The city maintains the old park so that families can continue to use it.
In real life
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