verwandeln
to transform
To fundamentally change something or someone so that it takes on a completely new form, shape, or quality.
EXAMPLE
Die Hexe hat den Prinzen in einen Frosch verwandelt.
The witch transformed the prince into a frog.
verwandeln
to transform
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Meanings
sich verwandeln
to transform
To undergo a fundamental change in one's own form or nature.
EXAMPLE
Die Raupe wird sich bald in einen Schmetterling verwandeln.
The caterpillar will soon transform into a butterfly.
verwandeln
to convert
In sports, to successfully use a penalty kick, penalty shot, or similar set-piece situation to score a goal or point.
EXAMPLE
Der Stürmer konnte den Elfmeter sicher verwandeln.
The striker was able to safely convert the penalty kick.
Usage tips
Sentence structure with 'in'
When something is transformed into something else, the preposition 'in' is used followed by the accusative. This applies both to the transitive and to the reflexive form of the verb.
EXAMPLE
Der Magier verwandelte die Karte in eine Taube.
The magician transformed the card into a dove.
Active vs. reflexive
A distinction is made between 'etwas verwandeln' (to transform something; transitive) and 'sich verwandeln' (to transform oneself; reflexive). In the first case, the subject changes an object. In the second case, the subject changes itself.
EXAMPLE
Die Künstlerin verwandelt Müll in Kunst.
The artist transforms trash into art.
Inseparable verb
'Verwandeln' (to transform) is an inseparable verb with the prefix 'ver-'. The base verb 'wandeln' means 'to move about' or 'to change', and the prefix 'ver-' here strengthens the idea of a complete change.
EXAMPLE
Die Renovierung hat das alte Haus komplett verwandelt.
The renovation completely transformed the old house.
Context: sports
In sports language, 'verwandeln' means to successfully use a scoring chance. This usually refers to set-piece situations such as a penalty kick, penalty shot, or free throw.
EXAMPLE
Der Spieler hat den entscheidenden Freistoß direkt verwandelt.
The player converted the decisive free kick directly.
Compare with
verwandeln vs umwandeln
to convert / transform
Both verbs describe a significant change. Verwandeln particularly emphasizes a completely new form or effect. Umwandeln focuses more on deliberately converting something into a particular form, function, or different state.
verwandeln
Mit Licht und Farben verwandelte das Team die alte Halle in eine beeindruckende Bühne.
Using light and colors, the team transformed the old hall into an impressive stage.
umwandeln
Die Stadt wandelte die alte Halle gezielt in ein Kulturzentrum um.
The city deliberately converted the old hall into a cultural center.
In real life
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