brauchen
to need
To need something or be required for a purpose. Expresses a necessity.
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche dringend einen Kaffee.
I urgently need a coffee.
brauchen
to need
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Meanings
brauchen
to take
To take or use a certain amount of time or resources for something.
EXAMPLE
Für die Fahrt nach Hamburg brauchen wir ungefähr drei Stunden.
For the trip to Hamburg, we'll take about three hours.
nicht brauchen zu
not need to
In combination with a negation and 'zu' + infinitive, it means that something is not necessary or that one does not have to do something. Corresponds to 'nicht müssen' (not have to).
EXAMPLE
Du brauchst heute nicht abzuwaschen, das mache ich später.
You don't need to do the dishes today; I'll do that later.
Usage tips
Two uses
'Brauchen' (to need) can be used as a normal main verb with an accusative object, or in negative sentences like a modal verb with 'zu' and an infinitive.
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche deine Hilfe.
I need your help.
Use with accusative
When 'brauchen' (to need) expresses a necessity, it functions as a main verb. The thing that one needs is always in the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Für dieses Rezept brauchen wir noch Eier und Mehl.
For this recipe, we still need eggs and flour.
Common mistake
A very common mistake is leaving out 'zu' in the construction with an infinitive. The correct form is always 'nicht brauchen zu + infinitive'.
EXAMPLE
Sie brauchen das Formular nicht auszudrucken.
You don't need to print out the form.
Colloquial form
In spoken language, the 'zu' after 'brauchen' (to need) is often omitted. Although this is very widespread, it is considered incorrect in written language and formal situations.
EXAMPLE
Du brauchst keine Angst haben, es ist alles in Ordnung.
You don't need to be afraid; everything is all right.
Compare with
brauchen vs nötig
necessary
Brauchen and etwas nötig haben can both express that someone urgently needs something. Brauchen is neutral and common in everyday speech, while nötig haben as a fixed expression sounds more emphatic and can sound mocking or critical depending on the situation. Brauchen is usually suitable for a normal statement; nötig haben can fit when expressing strong criticism.
brauchen
Nach dem langen Lauf brauchst du dringend ein Glas Wasser.
After the long run, you urgently need a glass of water.
nötig
Nach dem langen Lauf hast du dringend ein Glas Wasser nötig.
After the long run, you are badly in need of a glass of water.
In real life
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