to unite / combine
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to combine
To combine or bring together several different qualities, features, or functions within something.
Dieses Smartphone vereint modernes Design mit hoher Leistungsfähigkeit.
This smartphone combines modern design with high performance.
The word is made up of the prefix 'ver-' and the verb 'einen' (to make one). 'Vereinen' therefore literally means to make different things 'into one unit'.
Der neue Anbau soll alte und neue Gebäudeteile architektonisch vereinen.
The new extension is intended to architecturally unite the old and new parts of the building.
'Vereinen' (to unite/combine) is an inseparable verb because it begins with 'ver-'. The prefix remains firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms and tenses.
Die Band vereinte verschiedene Musikstile in ihren Liedern.
The band combined different musical styles in their songs.
In this meaning, 'vereinen' (to combine) is often used with abstract opposites. Typical pairs are: combining theory and practice, tradition and modernity, or work and pleasure.
Ein gutes Hobby vereint Spaß und persönliche Weiterentwicklung.
A good hobby combines fun and personal development.
This meaning is usually used when people or groups come together for a common goal. You often find phrases like 'Kräfte vereinen' (to join forces) or 'sich im Kampf gegen etwas vereinen' (to unite in the fight against something).
Die Bürger vereinten sich, um den alten Park zu retten.
The citizens united to save the old park.
When things physically connect, the verb is used reflexively: 'sich vereinen' (to merge/unite). This is especially common in geographical descriptions such as rivers or paths.
Hinter dem Berg vereinen sich die beiden Wanderwege.
Behind the mountain, the two hiking trails merge.
to connect / to bandage
'verbinden' and 'vereinen' can both mean that several things or people come together. 'verbinden' is more general: it can be about qualities, ideas, or also people joining together for a goal. 'vereinen' puts more emphasis on different parts forming a unit. It often sounds a little more formal or stronger than 'verbinden'. Learners may confuse the words because both describe a kind of bringing together. As a practical rule: 'verbinden' often fits when things work together; 'vereinen' fits more when something is really seen as a unit.
Der Verein vereint Menschen aus vielen Ländern.
The association unites people from many countries.
Das Projekt verbindet Umweltschutz mit neuen Ideen für die Stadt.
The project combines environmental protection with new ideas for the city.