gebrauchen
to use
To use or apply something for a specific purpose. It is a synonym of 'benutzen' (to use) or 'verwenden' (to use).
EXAMPLE
Dieses alte Werkzeug kann man immer noch gut gebrauchen.
This old tool can still be put to good use.
gebrauchen
to use / need
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Meanings
gebrauchen
to need
To need something or want to have something, often in a particular situation. It expresses a stronger, situational need than 'brauchen' (to need).
EXAMPLE
Nach der langen Wanderung könnte ich jetzt eine Dusche gebrauchen.
After the long hike, I could really use a shower now.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
The verb 'gebrauchen' is inseparable. The prefix 'ge-' remains firmly attached to the stem 'brauchen' in all sentence forms and tenses.
EXAMPLE
Ich gebrauche dieses Messer nur zum Schneiden von Gemüse.
I use this knife only for cutting vegetables.
Sentence structure with 'können'
In the meaning 'benötigen' (to need), 'gebrauchen' is very often combined with the modal verb 'können' in Konjunktiv II. The form 'könnte ... gebrauchen' expresses a wish or need in a particular situation.
EXAMPLE
Ich könnte jetzt wirklich einen starken Kaffee gebrauchen.
I could really use a strong coffee right now.
Typical collocations
When it means 'benötigen' (to need), 'gebrauchen' is often combined with things that are helpful in a situation. Typical examples are: Hilfe gebrauchen (to need help), einen Rat gebrauchen (to need advice), eine Pause gebrauchen (to need a break), or Glück gebrauchen (to need luck).
EXAMPLE
Für dieses Projekt kann ich jede Hilfe gebrauchen.
I can use all the help I can get for this project.
Compare with
gebrauchen vs brauchen
to need
Brauchen and gebrauchen can both express that someone needs something. Brauchen refers to a general need, while gebrauchen often occurs in „etwas gebrauchen können“ and expresses a specific, situational wish. Brauchen is appropriate for a normal need; when something would be helpful right now, gebrauchen can place greater emphasis on the situation.
gebrauchen
Für den Umzug könnte ich noch einen stabilen Karton gebrauchen.
I could still use a sturdy box for the move.
brauchen
Für den Umzug brauche ich noch einen stabilen Karton.
I still need a sturdy box for the move.
In real life
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