01
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
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
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 kosten
to cost / taste
'brauchen' and 'kosten' can both express that time, money, or energy is necessary for something. 'brauchen' emphasizes more that something is needed, or that you use a certain amount of time or a certain quantity for a task. 'kosten' is especially appropriate for a price in money, or for effort, trouble, or loss. The words can be confused because, for example, you can say both 'Das braucht Zeit' (That takes time) and 'Das kostet Zeit' (That costs time). 'brauchen' sounds more neutral here, while 'kosten' emphasizes more strongly that something involves effort or has a price.
brauchen
Für die Reparatur brauche ich noch zwei Stunden.
I still need two more hours for the repair.
kosten
Das neue Ticket kostet am Montag fünf Euro mehr.
The new ticket costs five euros more on Monday.
In real life
Loading video examples...