01
sich häufen
to pile up
To accumulate in large numbers or quantities; to become more and more numerous.
example
In letzter Zeit häufen sich die Beschwerden über den Lärm.
Recently, complaints about the noise have been piling up.
häufen
to pile up
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'häufen' (to pile up) is closely related to the noun 'der Haufen' (the pile, the heap). It describes the action of making something into a pile or of something becoming a pile.
EXAMPLE
Die Kinder häufen Sand zu einer großen Burg.
The children pile sand into a large castle.
Reflexive vs. transitive
There are two uses: 'sich häufen' (to pile up, reflexive) means that something increases on its own, often with abstract things. 'etwas häufen' (to pile something up, transitive) means that someone actively gathers something into a pile.
EXAMPLE
Die Fehler in dem Dokument häufen sich.
The errors in the document are piling up.
Typical collocations
The reflexive form 'sich häufen' (to pile up) is usually used for abstract things that increase in number. Typical subjects are 'die Probleme' (the problems), 'die Fehler' (the errors), 'die Anfragen' (the inquiries), or 'die Beschwerden' (the complaints).
EXAMPLE
Seit der neuen Software häufen sich die Probleme im System.
Since the new software was introduced, problems in the system have been piling up.
Compare with
häufen vs abnehmen
to lose weight / decrease / take off
'abnehmen' and 'sich häufen' both describe a change in quantity. However, they show opposite directions. 'abnehmen' means that something becomes less, for example noise, work, or pain. 'sich häufen' means that more and more of something is present or happens, often with problems, tasks, or complaints. When the amount becomes smaller, 'abnehmen' fits. When more and more accumulates, 'sich häufen' fits.
häufen
Vor dem Urlaub häufen sich im Büro die Aufgaben.
Before the vacation, tasks pile up at the office.
abnehmen
Nach dem Sturm nimmt der Wind langsam ab.
After the storm, the wind slowly dies down.
In real life
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