erzeugen
to generate
To make, produce, or create something through a physical, chemical, or technical process.
EXAMPLE
Windkraftanlagen erzeugen umweltfreundlichen Strom.
Wind turbines generate environmentally friendly electricity.
erzeugen
to generate
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
erzeugen
to create
To cause or bring about a feeling, an effect, an impression, or a particular situation.
EXAMPLE
Die spannende Musik im Film erzeugte eine unheimliche Atmosphäre.
The suspenseful music in the film created an eerie atmosphere.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Erzeugen' (to generate/create) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'er-' always stays attached to the verb stem and often emphasizes the successful creation of something new.
EXAMPLE
Die Maschine erzeugt ein lautes Geräusch.
The machine generates a loud noise.
Context clue
The object of the verb indicates the meaning. If it is something technical or physical like 'Strom' (electricity) or 'Produkte' (products), the first meaning is intended. With abstract things like 'Eindruck' (impression) or 'Gefühl' (feeling), the second meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Das Kraftwerk erzeugt Energie für die ganze Stadt.
The power plant generates energy for the whole city.
Register
'Erzeugen' (to generate/create) is a rather formal word that is often used in technical, scientific, or written contexts.
EXAMPLE
Durch die chemische Reaktion wird Wärme erzeugt.
Heat is generated by the chemical reaction.
Compare with
gewinnenentwickelnherstellenproduzierenverursachenauslösenbewirkenerschaffengenerierenhervorbringengebärenentlocken
erzeugen vs gewinnen
to win / gain
When supplying energy, gewinnen and erzeugen can both be appropriate. Gewinnen emphasizes that usable energy is obtained from a source, while erzeugen emphasizes its technical generation. Use gewinnen with the source or raw material and erzeugen with the process or result.
erzeugen
Die Solaranlage erzeugt Energie für das ganze Gebäude.
The solar plant generates energy for the entire building.
gewinnen
Die Anlage gewinnt Energie aus der Sonne.
The plant obtains energy from the sun.
In real life
Loading video examples...