01
schulen
to train
To train or instruct someone in a particular area or skill.
example
Die neuen Mitarbeiter werden eine Woche lang intensiv geschult.
The new employees are trained intensively for a week.
schulen
to train
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'schulen' is derived directly from the noun 'die Schule' (school). It means to teach someone knowledge or skills, as happens in a school.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen unsere Mitarbeiter besser für den Umgang mit Kunden schulen.
We need to train our employees better in dealing with customers.
Context clue
The object of the verb indicates the exact meaning. If the object is a person ('Mitarbeiter schulen' — to train employees), it is about training or instruction. If the object is a skill ('den Blick schulen' — to train one's eye), it is about the targeted training of that ability.
EXAMPLE
Die Firma schult alle Verkäufer im neuen Kassensystem.
The company trains all salespeople on the new cash register system.
Sentence structure with a preposition
When you train someone, the topic of the training is often given with the preposition 'in' followed by the dative.
EXAMPLE
Der Experte schulte das Team in den neuen Sicherheitsvorschriften.
The expert trained the team in the new safety regulations.
Typical collocations
When an ability is being improved, the objects are often abstract and refer to perception. Typical examples are: 'das Gehör schulen' (to train one's hearing), 'den Geschmack schulen' (to train one's taste), or 'das Urteilsvermögen schulen' (to train one's judgment).
EXAMPLE
Ein Sommelier muss seinen Geruchs- und Geschmackssinn ständig schulen.
A sommelier has to constantly train their sense of smell and taste.
Compare with
schulen vs bilden
to form / educate
'bilden' and 'schulen' both have to do with learning and development. 'bilden' is broader and often means a general development of knowledge, abilities, and personality. You can educate others or educate yourself. 'schulen' is more targeted: someone is trained in a specific area, or a specific ability is improved. In everyday use, 'schulen' often sounds more practical and closer to training, while 'bilden' is more comprehensive.
schulen
Im Kurs schult die Trainerin die Mitarbeiter im Umgang mit neuen Kunden.
In the course, the trainer trains the employees in dealing with new customers.
bilden
Gute Bücher bilden nicht nur den Verstand, sondern geben auch neue Ideen.
Good books educate not only the mind, but also provide new ideas.
In real life
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