01
fixieren
to fix
To attach something in a specific place or make it immobile.
example
Der Patient musste im Bett fixiert werden, um Stürze zu vermeiden.
The patient had to be fixed in the bed to prevent falls.
fixieren
to fix / to stare at
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
Verbs ending in '-ieren' often come from Latin or French. They are always regular and form the past participle without 'ge-' ('fixiert').
EXAMPLE
Wir haben den Termin für die Reise jetzt endgültig fixiert.
We have now definitively set the date for the trip.
Context clues
You can recognize the meaning of 'fixieren' (to fix / to stare at) from the object: if it is about a physical object, it means 'befestigen' (to attach). If it is about eyes or the gaze, it means 'anstarren' (to stare at). If it is about an appointment or price, it means 'festlegen' (to set).
EXAMPLE
Der Mechaniker fixierte das Rad mit vier Schrauben.
The mechanic fixed the wheel with four screws.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'befestigen' (to attach), the position is often given with the preposition 'an' (+ dative). Typical objects are shelves, signs, bandages, or even patients.
EXAMPLE
Das Bild muss sicher an der Wand fixiert werden.
The picture must be fixed securely to the wall.
Register and style
In the meaning 'festlegen' (to set), 'fixieren' is often used in office and business language. It sounds more binding and final.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen die Agenda für das Meeting noch heute fixieren.
We still have to set the agenda for the meeting today.
Reflexive with preposition
This meaning is always used reflexively and with the fixed preposition 'auf' + accusative: 'sich auf jemanden/etwas fixieren' (to fixate on someone/something). It describes a strong, often unhealthy concentration.
EXAMPLE
Du solltest dich nicht nur auf deine Fehler fixieren.
You shouldn't fixate only on your mistakes.
Technical language
The meanings connected with photography, chemistry, or biology are purely technical. Without context words like 'Foto' (photo), 'Labor' (laboratory), or 'Gewebe' (tissue), this meaning is unlikely.
EXAMPLE
Im Labor lernen die Studenten, wie man ein Präparat für das Mikroskop fixiert.
In the laboratory, the students learn how to fix a specimen for the microscope.
Compare with
fixieren vs lösen
to solve / loosen
'lösen' and 'fixieren' are opposites when something is made fixed or free. 'fixieren' means to fasten something in one place or to set something in a binding way. 'lösen', on the other hand, means to loosen something, open it, or end a fixed connection. This can be physical, for example with a belt, or abstract, for example with a connection. In short: 'fixieren' makes something fixed, while 'lösen' removes that fixedness.
fixieren
Wir fixieren den Termin nach dem Gespräch schriftlich.
We set the date in writing after the conversation.
lösen
Nach der Fahrt löst sie den Gurt und steigt aus.
After the ride, she unfastens the belt and gets out.
In real life
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