01
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
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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 have to do with need, but they are not the same. 'brauchen' is used normally when something is necessary: you need money, time, help, or a key. 'gebrauchen' usually means 'to use' or 'to apply', meaning to take something for a purpose. In sentences like 'Ich könnte Hilfe gebrauchen' (I could use some help), 'gebrauchen' also means that you could really use something. But this often sounds more situational and a little less neutral. Learners confuse the words because they look similar. A simple rule is: for 'to need', 'brauchen' is usually correct; for 'to use', 'gebrauchen' fits.
gebrauchen
Nach der Arbeit könnte ich eine kurze Pause gut gebrauchen.
After work, I could really use a short break.
brauchen
Vor dem Termin braucht der Lehrer noch die Liste mit den Namen.
Before the appointment, the teacher still needs the list of names.
In real life
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