01
verknüpfen
to link / connect
To relate or connect two or more things mentally, logically, or technically.
example
Die App verknüpft den Kalender mit der To-do-Liste.
The app links the calendar with the to-do list.
verknüpfen
to link / connect
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Verknüpfen' (to link/connect) is an inseparable verb that comes from 'knüpfen' (to tie a knot). The prefix 'ver-' strengthens the idea of a firm connection.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe die beiden Seile fest miteinander verknüpft.
I tied the two ropes firmly together.
Fixed preposition
The verb 'verknüpfen' (to link/connect) is almost always used with the preposition 'mit' (with). The pattern is: 'etwas mit etwas verknüpfen' (to link/connect something with something).
EXAMPLE
In meiner Präsentation möchte ich die Theorie mit praktischen Beispielen verknüpfen.
In my presentation, I would like to link the theory with practical examples.
Context clue
The abstract meaning (to connect logically/technically) is much more common today than the physical one. You can recognize it by the fact that the objects are not physical things, but, for example, data, ideas, events, or memories.
EXAMPLE
Bitte verknüpfen Sie Ihr Bankkonto mit der App.
Please link your bank account with the app.
Context clue
You can recognize the literal meaning (to physically tie together) by the fact that it involves concrete, flexible objects. Typical objects are threads, ropes, ribbons, or ends.
EXAMPLE
Der Gärtner verknüpfte die Äste der jungen Bäume.
The gardener tied together the branches of the young trees.
Compare with
verknüpfen vs verbinden
to connect / to bandage
'verbinden' and 'verknüpfen' often mean that two things are put into relation with each other. 'verbinden' is the more general word and fits physical, technical, telephone, or mental connections. 'verknüpfen' sounds especially natural with data, information, ideas, or logical connections. It can also mean a physical connection made with knots, but in everyday use it is often more abstract or technical. Learners may confuse the words because both can be used for mental and technical relationships. 'verbinden' is usually broader; 'verknüpfen' emphasizes the relationship between individual points more strongly.
verknüpfen
Im Bericht verknüpft Ida die Zahlen mit den Ergebnissen der Umfrage.
In the report, Ida links the figures to the results of the survey.
verbinden
Das Kabel verbindet den Bildschirm mit dem Laptop.
The cable connects the monitor to the laptop.
In real life
Loading video examples...