01
einbrechen
to break in
To enter a building forcibly and without permission, usually with the intention of stealing.
example
Letzte Nacht wurde bei unseren Nachbarn eingebrochen.
Last night, our neighbors' house was broken into.
einbrechen
to break in / collapse
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Einbrechen' (to break in / collapse) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ein-' goes to the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Der Täter brach in der Nacht ein.
The perpetrator broke in during the night.
Perfect tense with 'sein'
The perfect tense of 'einbrechen' (to break in / collapse) is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein'. This is because the verb describes a sudden change of state or place.
EXAMPLE
Die Diebe sind durch ein Fenster eingebrochen.
The thieves broke in through a window.
Correct preposition
To name the target of the break-in, use 'in' with the accusative. To name the affected place or person, use 'bei' with the dative.
EXAMPLE
Jemand ist in den Supermarkt eingebrochen.
Someone broke into the supermarket.
Poetic use
In relation to times of day or seasons, 'einbrechen' (to set in) is often used figuratively to describe a sudden beginning. Typical combinations are 'die Nacht bricht ein' (night falls) or 'der Winter bricht ein' (winter sets in).
EXAMPLE
Als der Winter einbrach, fiel der erste Schnee.
When winter set in, the first snow fell.
Context: business
This meaning is very common in business and finance news. It describes a sudden, sharp decline. Typical subjects are 'die Kurse' (prices/rates), 'der Markt' (the market), or 'der Gewinn' (profit).
EXAMPLE
Nach der Ankündigung sind die Aktien der Firma eingebrochen.
After the announcement, the company's shares collapsed.
Compare with
einbrechen vs einsetzen
to insert / to begin / to use
'einsetzen' and 'einbrechen' can both describe the beginning of something, especially in nature or the weather. 'einsetzen' is more neutral and simply means that a process begins, for example rain or snowfall. 'einbrechen' sounds more sudden and stronger; it often fits darkness, cold, or a change in the weather. The words can be confused because both can stand for the beginning of an event. If the beginning is calm or normal, 'einsetzen' fits better. If something comes suddenly and noticeably, 'einbrechen' is more precise.
einbrechen
Nach dem langen Wandertag brach plötzlich die Dunkelheit ein.
After the long day of hiking, darkness suddenly set in.
einsetzen
Gegen Mittag setzt leichter Schneefall ein.
Around midday, light snowfall begins.
In real life
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