01
erwärmen
to warm / heat
To bring something to a higher temperature by adding heat; to make something warm.
example
Ich erwärme mir die Reste von gestern in der Mikrowelle.
I'm heating up yesterday's leftovers in the microwave.
erwärmen
to warm / heat
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
The verb 'erwärmen' (to warm/heat) has the inseparable prefix 'er-'. This means the prefix remains firmly attached to the verb 'wärmen' (to warm) in all sentence forms and tenses and is never separated.
EXAMPLE
Er erwärmte die Milch für den Kakao.
He warmed the milk for the cocoa.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning of 'erwärmen' (to warm/heat) from the object: if it is about a concrete object like food or water, it is meant literally. The reflexive form 'sich erwärmen für' (to warm to) means to develop interest. In connection with 'Herz' (heart), it is meant emotionally.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte das Essen erwärmen?
Can you please heat up the food?
Sentence structure with preposition
In the figurative meaning 'Interesse entwickeln' (to develop interest), 'erwärmen' (to warm) is always used reflexively and with the preposition 'für' + accusative. So the structure is: 'sich für etwas erwärmen' (to warm to something).
EXAMPLE
Anfangs war sie skeptisch, aber dann erwärmte sie sich für die Idee.
At first she was skeptical, but then she warmed to the idea.
Typical collocations
In the literal meaning, 'erwärmen' (to warm/heat) is often used with foods and drinks. Typical combinations are 'die Suppe erwärmen' (to heat up the soup), 'die Milch erwärmen' (to warm the milk), or 'das Essen erwärmen' (to heat up the food).
EXAMPLE
Er erwärmt sich eine Tasse Tee, um sich aufzuwärmen.
He warms himself a cup of tea to warm up.
Fixed expression
In the emotional meaning, the expression 'jemandem das Herz erwärmen' (to warm someone's heart) is very common. The subject is often a kind gesture, a friendly word, or a beautiful sight.
EXAMPLE
Die Dankbarkeit des Kindes erwärmte ihr Herz.
The child's gratitude warmed her heart.
Compare with
erwärmen vs berühren
to touch
'berühren' and 'erwärmen' can both describe something triggering feelings. 'berühren' is more general: a story, message, or gesture can move someone inwardly, and can also make them sad or thoughtful. 'erwärmen' sounds more positive and gentler. It means that something creates joy, sympathy, or a warm feeling. Learners may confuse the words because both can be meant emotionally. If something moves someone deeply, 'berühren' fits; if something reaches the heart in a friendly and pleasant way, 'erwärmen' fits better.
erwärmen
Das Lächeln des Kindes erwärmte alle im Raum.
The child's smile warmed everyone in the room.
berühren
Der Brief ihrer Großmutter hat sie sehr berührt.
The letter from her grandmother touched her deeply.
In real life
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