01
umrahmen
to frame
To put a frame around something, especially a picture or photo.
example
Sie ließ das alte Familienfoto neu umrahmen.
She had the old family photo reframed.
umrahmen
to frame
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Umrahmen' (to frame) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'um-' remains firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms because it is unstressed (um-RAH-men).
EXAMPLE
Ein schöner Garten umrahmt das Haus.
A beautiful garden frames the house.
Word structure
The verb is made up of 'um' (around) and 'Rahmen' (frame). The literal meaning, 'to make a frame around something,' is also transferred to abstract situations.
EXAMPLE
Dunkle Locken umrahmten ihr Gesicht.
Dark curls framed her face.
Context clue
The object of the verb reveals the exact meaning. If it is a picture, the literal meaning is intended. With places or faces, it refers to a border or outline. With events, it refers to the festive setting.
EXAMPLE
Ich möchte dieses Foto umrahmen lassen.
I would like to have this photo framed.
Typical collocations
When talking about events, the action is often carried out by abstract things. Typical examples are 'musikalische Beiträge' (musical contributions), 'ein festliches Programm' (a festive program), or 'künstlerische Darbietungen' (artistic performances) that 'umrahmen' (provide a setting for) something.
EXAMPLE
Ein Chor umrahmte den Gottesdienst musikalisch.
A choir provided musical accompaniment for the church service.
Compare with
umrahmen vs begleiten
to accompany
'begleiten' and 'umrahmen' can both occur in the context of music, celebrations, or events. 'begleiten' then means that music, singing, or another circumstance is present at the same time and supports something. 'umrahmen' sounds more festive and means that something gives an event an attractive or suitable setting. It is easy to confuse the words when music is played at an event. For example, a pianist can 'einen Sänger begleiten' (accompany a singer). A choir can 'eine Feier musikalisch umrahmen' (provide a musical setting for a celebration). 'begleiten' is closer to direct support, while 'umrahmen' is closer to shaping the whole event.
umrahmen
Ein kleines Orchester umrahmt die Preisverleihung mit ruhiger Musik.
A small orchestra provides a calm musical setting for the award ceremony.
begleiten
Herr Müller begleitet den Sänger am Klavier.
Mr. Müller accompanies the singer on the piano.
In real life
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