to reform
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to reform
To fundamentally change and improve an existing system, organization, or law in order to adapt it to new circumstances.
Die Regierung plant, das Steuersystem zu reformieren.
The government plans to reform the tax system.
'Reformieren' (to reform) is a typical verb ending in '-ieren', often derived from Latin. These verbs are always regular and inseparable. The prefix 're-' means 'again' or 'new', so literally 'to form anew'.
Sie diskutierten lange, wie man das Bildungssystem reformieren könnte.
They discussed for a long time how the education system could be reformed.
The verb 'reformieren' (to reform) is closely related to the noun 'die Reform' (reform). A reform is the change or improvement achieved by reforming.
Die neue Gesundheitsreform tritt nächstes Jahr in Kraft.
The new healthcare reform comes into effect next year.
You can recognize the more specific meanings from the context. In connection with 'Kirche' (church) or 'Luther', the historical Reformation is meant. Terms like 'Benzin' (gasoline) or 'Raffinerie' (refinery) point to the technical language of chemistry.
Im Geschichtsunterricht lernen wir, wie die Kirche reformiert wurde.
In history class, we learn how the church was reformed.
In its most common meaning, 'reformieren' (to reform) is used with abstract systems and institutions. Typical objects are 'das Gesetz' (the law), 'die Wirtschaft' (the economy), 'die Verwaltung' (the administration), or 'das Schulsystem' (the school system).
Viele Bürger fordern, das Wahlsystem zu reformieren.
Many citizens are demanding that the electoral system be reformed.
to preserve / protect
'bewahren' and 'reformieren' are clear opposites here. 'bewahren' means that a state, rule, or quality is preserved and not lost. 'reformieren', on the other hand, means that an existing system or law is deliberately changed and improved. 'bewahren' fits better when you want to keep traditions or proven structures. 'reformieren' fits better when something no longer works well and needs to be newly adapted.
Die Regierung will das Schulsystem reformieren, damit Kinder besser gefördert werden.
The government wants to reform the school system so that children receive better support.
Viele Menschen möchten die alten Feste im Dorf bewahren.
Many people want to preserve the old festivals in the village.