to introduce / import
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to introduce
To make something new (e.g. a law, product, or rule) known in a system or group and put it into use.
Die Firma wird nächstes Jahr ein neues Bezahlsystem einführen.
The company will introduce a new payment system next year.
'Einführen' (to introduce/import/insert) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ein-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Die Firma führt bald neue Arbeitszeiten ein.
The company is introducing new working hours soon.
The verb is made up of 'ein-' (in/into) and 'führen' (to lead/guide). This logic of 'guiding in' helps you understand the different meanings: you guide a product into the market, goods into the country, or a person into a topic.
Der Mentor führt den neuen Mitarbeiter in die Firmenkultur ein.
The mentor introduces the new employee to the company culture.
In this meaning, 'einführen' (to introduce) is often combined with abstract concepts. Typical objects are: a law, a rule, a system, an innovation, or a brand.
Die Regierung plant, eine neue Steuer einzuführen.
The government is planning to introduce a new tax.
The meaning 'importieren' (to import) is mainly used in the context of business and trade. It is about bringing goods across a national border.
Viele technische Geräte werden aus Asien eingeführt.
Many technical devices are imported from Asia.
When you familiarize a person with a topic, the fixed structure is: 'jemanden (Akkusativ) in etwas (Akkusativ) einführen' (to introduce someone to something).
Kannst du mich bitte in die neue Software einführen?
Could you please introduce me to the new software?
In the expression 'sich einführen' (to make a start/establish oneself), the verb is used reflexively. It means positioning yourself in a new environment or group and making a first impression.
Er hat sich bei der neuen Familie sofort gut eingeführt.
He immediately made a good start with the new family.
to imagine / introduce
'vorstellen' and 'einführen' can both be used when something new is made known. 'vorstellen' mainly means that you show or name a person, an idea, or a product so that others can get to know it. 'einführen' goes one step further: something new is not only made known, but is also meant to be used afterward, for example a rule, a system, or a product. With people, 'jemanden in etwas einführen' means that you explain a topic or task to someone and familiarize them with it. Learners may confuse the words because both come at the beginning of something new. In short: 'vorstellen' informs or presents; 'einführen' puts something into practice or familiarizes someone with it.
Die Firma führt ab Januar ein neues Computersystem ein.
The company is introducing a new computer system in January.
Der Trainer stellt den neuen Trainingsplan vor.
The coach presents the new training plan.