01
die Erfindung
invention
A newly developed thing or new process that did not exist before.
example
Das Smartphone ist eine Erfindung, die unseren Alltag verändert hat.
The smartphone is an invention that has changed our everyday life.
die Erfindung
invention
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Word family
'Die Erfindung' (the invention) belongs to the verb 'erfinden' (to invent). This is derived from 'finden' (to find). The prefix 'er-' often indicates a successful result, so the finding of something new. The ending '-ung' turns the verb into a feminine noun.
EXAMPLE
Wer hat eigentlich das Rad erfunden?
Who actually invented the wheel?
Typical collocations
When referring to a new thing, 'Erfindung' (invention) is often combined with the verb 'machen' (to make). Adjectives such as 'bahnbrechend' (groundbreaking), 'genial' (brilliant), or 'nützlich' (useful) are also typical.
EXAMPLE
Der Ingenieur hat eine bahnbrechende Erfindung gemacht.
The engineer made a groundbreaking invention.
Use with genitive
To describe the process of inventing, 'Erfindung' (invention) is often used with a genitive or a 'von' construction that indicates what was invented.
EXAMPLE
Die Erfindung des Papiers war für die Menschheit von großer Bedeutung.
The invention of paper was of great importance for humanity.
Context clue
You can often recognize the meaning 'Lüge' (lie) or 'Fiktion' (fiction) from words such as 'rein' (pure), 'frei' (free), or 'bloß' (mere). The phrase 'eine freie Erfindung' means that something is completely made up.
EXAMPLE
Die Geschichte vom Monster im See ist nur eine reine Erfindung.
The story about the monster in the lake is just a pure fabrication.
Compare with
Erfindung vs Entwicklung
development
'die Entwicklung' and 'die Erfindung' can both have to do with something new. 'Entwicklung' usually describes work on a product, technology, or idea, often step by step. 'Erfindung' places more emphasis on the fact that something new is created that did not exist in that form before. Learners may confuse the words because an invention often comes about through development. In practical terms: development is often the path, and the invention is often the new result.
Erfindung
Diese Erfindung hilft vielen Menschen im Alltag.
This invention helps many people in everyday life.
Entwicklung
Die Entwicklung der neuen App dauert länger als geplant.
The development of the new app is taking longer than planned.
In real life
Loading video examples...