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der Erbauer
builder
The person or group that planned and constructed a building or another large structure.
example
Der Erbauer dieser Kathedrale ist unbekannt.
The builder of this cathedral is unknown.
der Erbauer
builder
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word family
'Der Erbauer' (builder) is derived from the verb 'erbauen' (to build/construct), which means 'errichten' (to erect) or 'aufbauen' (to build up). The ending '-er' marks the male person who performs the action, a typical pattern in German.
EXAMPLE
Die Stadt ehrt die Erbauer der neuen Bibliothek.
The city honors the builders of the new library.
Use with the genitive
To say what was built, the genitive is used very often. This structure follows the pattern 'der Erbauer + des/der [Bauwerks]' (the builder of the [structure]).
EXAMPLE
Gustave Eiffel war der Erbauer des Eiffelturms.
Gustave Eiffel was the builder of the Eiffel Tower.
Register and meaning
The word 'Erbauer' (builder) is used for the person or group responsible for the planning and construction of an important structure. It has a more formal and dignified connotation than, for example, 'Bauarbeiter' (construction worker).
EXAMPLE
Die Erbauer der Pyramiden leisteten Unglaubliches.
The builders of the pyramids accomplished something incredible.
Compare with
Erbauer vs Architekt
architect
'der Architekt' and 'der Erbauer' can both be connected with a building. An architect is the profession: he plans and designs a building. 'Erbauer' refers to the person or group that built a structure or caused it to be built. The word often sounds more general and is used especially for well-known buildings or historical structures. Learners may confuse the words because an architect is also involved in the creation of a building. But not every 'Erbauer' is an architect, and the architect usually does not build it himself.
Erbauer
Im Museum erfährt man viel über den Erbauer der alten Brücke.
At the museum, you learn a lot about the builder of the old bridge.
Architekt
Der Architekt bespricht mit den Handwerkern die Fenster im neuen Haus.
The architect discusses the windows in the new house with the tradespeople.
In real life
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