01
schweißen
to weld
To permanently join two or more parts, usually made of metal, using heat and/or pressure.
example
Der Mechaniker muss den gebrochenen Rahmen des Fahrrads schweißen.
The mechanic has to weld the broken frame of the bicycle.
schweißen
to weld
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Figurative use
In the figurative meaning, the separable verb 'zusammenschweißen' (to weld together) is almost always used. The prefix 'zusammen' (together) emphasizes that the people become one unit. In a main clause, the prefix stands at the end.
EXAMPLE
Die gemeinsame Reise hat die Freunde eng zusammengeschweißt.
The trip together welded the friends closely together.
Context clue
You can tell whether the technical or figurative meaning is intended from the object. If the verb refers to metals or technical parts, it is about the craft. If it refers to people or groups (team, family), the figurative meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Handwerker schweißt die beiden Rohre zusammen.
The craftsman welds the two pipes together.
Typical collocations
In a technical context, 'schweißen' (to weld) is often combined with materials such as 'Stahl' (steel), 'Metall' (metal), or 'Aluminium' (aluminum). You can also say that you weld something 'an' (onto) or 'auf' (onto) another part.
EXAMPLE
Er hat gelernt, wie man Stahlplatten professionell schweißt.
He learned how to weld steel plates professionally.
Compare with
schweißen vs verbinden
to connect / to bandage
'verbinden' and 'schweißen' can both mean that parts or people come firmly together. 'verbinden' is general and does not say exactly how the connection is created. You can connect things with screws, cables, or glue. 'schweißen' is much more specific: in the literal sense, metal parts are usually joined firmly by heat or pressure. Figuratively, an experience can weld people or groups very closely together. Learners may confuse the words because 'schweißen' is a specific kind of 'verbinden'. If it is not about metalwork or a very strong human connection, 'verbinden' is usually more natural.
schweißen
In der Werkstatt schweißt die Mitarbeiterin zwei Metallrohre zusammen.
In the workshop, the employee welds two metal pipes together.
verbinden
Die neue Brücke verbindet das Dorf mit der Stadt.
The new bridge connects the village with the city.
In real life
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