01
kontrollieren
to check
To check or inspect something in order to make sure that it is correct, complete, or safe.
example
Der Schaffner kontrolliert im Zug die Fahrkarten.
The conductor checks the tickets on the train.
kontrollieren
to check / control
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Meanings
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Usage tips
False friend
'Kontrollieren' means 'überprüfen' (to check) or 'beherrschen' (to control), but not 'to operate a device'. Although it resembles the English 'to control', German uses the verb 'steuern' (to steer/control) for operating a vehicle or device.
EXAMPLE
Der Pilot steuert das Flugzeug sicher durch den Sturm.
The pilot steers the plane safely through the storm.
Use with the accusative
The verb 'kontrollieren' almost always requires a direct object in the accusative. You always check or control 'etwas' (something) or 'jemanden' (someone).
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei kontrolliert die Geschwindigkeit auf der Autobahn.
The police are checking speeds on the highway.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context: If it is about rules, documents, or quality, it means 'überprüfen' (to check). If it is about power, influence, or a situation, it means 'beherrschen' (to control/dominate).
EXAMPLE
Der Lehrer kontrolliert die Hausaufgaben. (überprüfen)
The teacher checks the homework. (to check)
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'überprüfen' (to check), 'kontrollieren' is often connected with documents or processes. Typical phrases are: 'die Rechnungen kontrollieren' (to check the invoices), 'die Qualität kontrollieren' (to check quality), or 'den Ölstand kontrollieren' (to check the oil level).
EXAMPLE
Bevor wir losfahren, müssen wir den Reifendruck kontrollieren.
Before we set off, we have to check the tire pressure.
Reflexive use
The phrase 'sich kontrollieren' is reflexive and means to control one's own emotions or reactions. The reflexive pronoun 'sich' is in the accusative here.
EXAMPLE
Atme tief durch und versuche, dich zu kontrollieren.
Take a deep breath and try to control yourself.
Compare with
kontrollieren vs überzeugen
to convince
'sich überzeugen' and 'kontrollieren' can both have to do with checking. With 'sich überzeugen', you want to become sure yourself that something is correct or present. 'kontrollieren' means more to check something deliberately, often according to rules or with responsibility. For example, you might 'kontrollieren' a bill, a ticket, or an assignment. The words can be confused because you can also convince yourself through a check. Still, 'kontrollieren' sounds stricter and more factual, while 'sich überzeugen' emphasizes your own certainty more strongly.
kontrollieren
Im Zug hat der Schaffner die Fahrkarten kontrolliert.
On the train, the conductor checked the tickets.
überzeugen
Daniel hat sich im Gespräch davon überzeugt, dass der Plan wirklich funktioniert.
During the conversation, Daniel satisfied himself that the plan really works.
In real life
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