01
kämpfen
to fight
To engage in a physical or military confrontation with an opponent.
example
Die beiden Boxer kämpften bis zur letzten Runde.
The two boxers fought until the final round.
kämpfen
to fight
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Kämpfen' (to fight) is the verb that belongs to the noun 'der Kampf' (the fight/struggle). If you know the noun, you can easily work out the meaning of the verb.
EXAMPLE
Der Kampf gegen die Armut ist eine globale Herausforderung.
The fight against poverty is a global challenge.
Kämpfen 'für' or 'um'?
The prepositions 'für' (for) and 'um' (for/over) have different meanings. You fight 'für' (+ accusative) an ideal cause, such as peace or justice. You fight 'um' (+ accusative) something concrete that you want to win or keep, such as a title or your life.
EXAMPLE
Die Bürgerinitiative kämpft für den Erhalt des alten Parks.
The citizens' initiative is fighting for the preservation of the old park.
Kämpfen 'gegen'
The preposition 'gegen' (+ accusative) is used to name an opponent or a negative phenomenon that you want to overcome. These can be people, illnesses, or problems.
EXAMPLE
Er kämpft schon lange gegen seine Flugangst.
He has been fighting against his fear of flying for a long time.
Kämpfen 'mit'
The preposition 'mit' (+ dative) describes an inner or personal struggle with a difficulty. This is not about an opponent, but about a burden or problem that one is wrestling with.
EXAMPLE
Viele Studenten kämpfen mit dem Prüfungsstress.
Many students struggle with exam stress.
Compare with
kämpfen vs streiten
to argue / dispute
'kämpfen' and 'streiten' both have to do with conflict. 'kämpfen' is stronger and can be physical, military, or figurative: you fight against an opponent, fight for a goal, or struggle with a problem. 'streiten' is used mainly when people disagree or get annoyed with each other verbally. It can also be about a topic or about something several people want to have. The words can be confused because both describe confrontations. When it is about words and opinions, 'streiten' is usually more natural. When it is about great effort, an opponent, or a serious problem, 'kämpfen' fits better.
kämpfen
Frau Neumann kämpft für bessere Bücher in der Schulbibliothek.
Ms. Neumann is fighting for better books in the school library.
streiten
Am Wochenende streitet Leon mit seinem Bruder über den Haushalt.
On the weekend, Leon argues with his brother about the housework.
In real life
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