to experiment
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to experiment
To carry out a scientific experiment in order to test a hypothesis, find a law or pattern, or make a discovery.
Die Forscher experimentieren mit neuen Medikamenten gegen die Krankheit.
The researchers are experimenting with new medications against the disease.
to experiment
In general usage, to try out new things, methods, or ideas in order to see what the result is or what works best.
In meiner Freizeit experimentiere ich gerne mit verschiedenen Maltechniken.
In my free time, I like to experiment with different painting techniques.
The verb 'experimentieren' (to experiment) is derived directly from the noun 'das Experiment' (the experiment). If you know the noun, you can easily work out the meaning of the verb.
Ein gutes Experiment braucht eine klare Fragestellung.
A good experiment needs a clear research question.
'Experimentieren' (to experiment) is almost always used with the preposition 'mit' (with) and the dative. You experiment with something.
Der Koch experimentiert mit neuen Gewürzen aus Asien.
The chef is experimenting with new spices from Asia.
You can recognize the scientific meaning from words like 'Labor' (laboratory), 'Forscher' (researcher), or 'Hypothese' (hypothesis). The general meaning 'ausprobieren' (to try out) is often used in creative or everyday contexts such as 'Küche' (kitchen), 'Kunst' (art), or 'Musik' (music).
Die Wissenschaftler experimentieren im Labor mit Zellkulturen.
The scientists are experimenting with cell cultures in the laboratory.
In the scientific meaning, the goal or location of the experiment is often mentioned as well. Typical additions are 'im Labor' (in the laboratory), 'an der Universität' (at the university), or 'um eine Theorie zu beweisen' (in order to prove a theory).
An der Universität wird mit alternativen Energiequellen experimentiert.
At the university, people are experimenting with alternative energy sources.
to test
Both words can refer to a new method whose results you want to find out. Testen means deliberately checking whether something works or meets requirements. Experimentieren is more open-ended: you try out different approaches and observe what happens. Use testen for a clear check and experimentieren when exploring possibilities.
Wir experimentieren mit verschiedenen Lernmethoden, um den besten Ansatz zu finden.
We are experimenting with different learning methods to find the best approach.
Wir testen die neue Lern-App mit zehn Schülern, um ihre Funktion zu prüfen.
We are testing the new learning app with ten students to check how it works.
