der Fachmann
expert
A person who has special knowledge and great skill in a particular field; an expert.
EXAMPLE
Für die Reparatur der Heizung sollten wir einen Fachmann rufen.
We should call an expert to repair the heating system.
der Fachmann
expert
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Meanings
der Fachmann
expert
In a figurative sense, a person who knows a lot about a particular, often non-professional area.
EXAMPLE
Wenn es um alte Filme geht, ist mein Onkel ein echter Fachmann.
When it comes to old films, my uncle is a real expert.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Fach' (field/subject area) and 'Mann' (man). So it literally describes a man who knows a lot about a particular field.
EXAMPLE
Bei Computerproblemen frage ich immer meinen Kollegen, er ist da der Fachmann.
When I have computer problems, I always ask my colleague; he's the expert there.
Use with prepositions
To name the area of expertise, German usually uses the preposition 'für' (for) with the accusative or the phrase 'auf dem Gebiet' (in the field) with the genitive.
EXAMPLE
Wir suchen einen Fachmann für Steuerrecht.
We are looking for an expert in tax law.
Typical verbs
In a professional context, an expert is often 'gerufen' (called), 'geholt' (brought in), 'beauftragt' (hired/commissioned), or 'konsultiert' (consulted) when their help is needed.
EXAMPLE
Für die Renovierung haben wir einen Fachmann beauftragt.
We hired an expert for the renovation.
Context clue
In the figurative sense, you can often recognize the meaning from additions like 'ein echter Fachmann' (a real expert) or 'ein wahrer Fachmann' (a true expert). The context is usually a hobby or everyday knowledge, not a profession.
EXAMPLE
Was das Grillen angeht, ist mein Vater ein echter Fachmann.
When it comes to grilling, my father is a real expert.
Compare with
Fachmann vs Experte
expert
“Experte” and “Fachmann” both refer to a person with specialized knowledge and skill in a field. “Fachmann” emphasizes practical and professional experience somewhat more, while “Experte” tends to indicate especially extensive or recognized expertise. Use “Fachmann” for practical work and “Experte” for outstanding knowledge or status.
Fachmann
Für die Reparatur der alten Brücke brauchen wir einen erfahrenen Fachmann.
We need an experienced professional to repair the old bridge.
Experte
Für die komplizierte Planung brauchen wir einen anerkannten Experten für Brückenbau.
We need a recognized expert in bridge construction for the complicated planning.
In real life
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