01
entfachen
to kindle
To make a fire start burning; to light something.
example
Mit trockenem Reisig und einem Feuerstein entfachte er ein wärmendes Lagerfeuer.
With dry brushwood and a flint, he kindled a warming campfire.
entfachen
to kindle / ignite
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Entfachen' (to kindle / ignite) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'ent-' remains firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms. It often indicates the beginning of a process.
EXAMPLE
Er hat im Garten ein Feuer entfacht.
He kindled a fire in the garden.
Elevated style
The verb 'entfachen' (to kindle / ignite) belongs to a more formal, elevated style. It is often found in written language, for example in news reports, reports, or literature.
EXAMPLE
Die Rede des Präsidenten entfachte landesweite Proteste.
The president's speech ignited nationwide protests.
Typical collocations
In its figurative meaning, 'entfachen' (to ignite) is used very frequently. Typical objects are abstract nouns such as 'eine Debatte' (a debate), 'ein Streit' (an argument), 'eine Diskussion' (a discussion), 'Leidenschaft' (passion), or 'Begeisterung' (enthusiasm).
EXAMPLE
Der neue Film hat eine große Begeisterung für das Thema entfacht.
The new film has ignited great enthusiasm for the topic.
Compare with
entfachen vs löschen
to extinguish / delete
'löschen' and 'entfachen' are opposites when talking about fire. 'entfachen' means to make a fire start burning or become stronger. 'löschen' means to put out a fire. In everyday situations, people more often say 'ein Feuer machen' (to make a fire) or 'anzünden' (to light), but 'entfachen' fits well when the fire is deliberately kindled or something starts burning more strongly. 'löschen' fits when the fire is dangerous or should no longer be burning.
entfachen
Mit trockenem Holz entfachte Lisa ein kleines Feuer im Kamin.
With dry wood, Lisa kindled a small fire in the fireplace.
löschen
Nach dem Grillen löschte Max die Glut sorgfältig mit Wasser.
After the barbecue, Max carefully extinguished the embers with water.
In real life
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