to lead toward
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to lead toward
To deliberately steer a conversation, line of argument, or development in a certain direction or toward a specific topic or result.
Mit seiner Frage wollte der Journalist auf die Widersprüche in der Aussage des Politikers hinführen.
With his question, the journalist wanted to lead toward the contradictions in the politician's statement.
to lead
To guide or bring someone or something to a specific place.
Der Reiseführer wird uns zu den alten Ruinen hinführen.
The tour guide will lead us to the old ruins.
'Hinführen' (to lead toward) is a separable verb. The prefix 'hin-' goes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Pfad führt direkt zum Gipfel hin.
The path leads directly toward the summit.
The verb consists of the prefix 'hin-' (movement toward a goal) and 'führen' (to lead/guide). It always describes leading toward a specific point—whether a place or a topic.
Wo führt dieser Gang hin?
Where does this corridor lead?
The meaning depends on the goal. If the goal is a physical place (e.g., 'zum Bahnhof' — to the train station), the literal meaning is intended. If the goal is an abstract topic or result (e.g., 'zu einer Lösung' — to a solution), the figurative meaning is intended.
Können Sie mich bitte zum Ausgang hinführen?
Could you please lead me to the exit?
In the figurative meaning, 'hinführen' (to lead toward) is almost always used with the preposition 'zu' (+ dative) to name the topic or intended result.
Der Lehrer führte die Schüler langsam zur Lösung des Problems hin.
The teacher slowly led the students toward the solution to the problem.
to lead
Führen and hinführen can both mean bringing someone to a place. Führen neutrally describes leading or accompanying, while hinführen places more emphasis on movement toward a specific destination. Use führen for general leadership and hinführen when the destination is especially important.
Der Mitarbeiter führte die Gäste zum neuen Konferenzraum hin.
The employee led the guests to the new conference room.
Der Mitarbeiter führte die Gäste durch das Gebäude.
The employee led the guests through the building.
