to bring together / merge
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to merge
To unite people, groups, or things that were separate in one place or into one unit.
Die neue Software soll die Datenbanken aus beiden Abteilungen zusammenführen.
The new software is supposed to merge the databases from both departments.
'Zusammenführen' (to bring together / merge) is a separable verb. The prefix 'zusammen-' appears at the end in main clauses. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Manager führt die beiden Teams für das neue Projekt zusammen.
The manager brings the two teams together for the new project.
The meaning of 'zusammenführen' (to bring together / merge) depends on the object. If it refers to things or organizations, it means 'to unite' or 'to merge'. If it refers to people, it means 'to introduce' or 'to bring together'. If it refers to information, it means 'to combine into a result'.
Die neue Brücke führt die beiden Stadtteile zusammen.
The new bridge brings the two districts together.
In the sense of 'to unite' or 'to merge', the verb is often used for abstract or organizational things. Typical objects are: 'Daten' (data), 'Systeme' (systems), 'Unternehmen' (companies), 'Abteilungen' (departments), or 'Länder' (countries).
Die Software hilft dabei, verschiedene Dateiformate zusammenzuführen.
The software helps merge different file formats.
In the context of investigations or analyses, the phrase 'die Fäden zusammenführen' (to bring the threads together) is often used. It means connecting all individual pieces of information and clues into an overall picture.
Am Ende laufen bei der Projektleiterin alle Fäden zusammen.
In the end, all the threads come together with the project manager.
to imagine / introduce
'vorstellen' and 'zusammenführen' can both mean introducing people to each other. 'vorstellen' is the normal word when you give names or introduce yourself. It fits in many everyday situations. 'zusammenführen' sounds more like a deliberate connection: someone brings two people or groups together so that contact, cooperation, or a relationship can develop from it. The words can be confused because both occur in the context of new contacts. If it is just about names and making introductions, 'vorstellen' is more natural. If the focus is on building a connection, 'zusammenführen' fits better.
Die Mitarbeiterin führt zwei Teams zusammen, damit sie an einem Projekt arbeiten können.
The employee brings two teams together so they can work on a project.
Darf ich dir meine neue Kollegin vorstellen?
May I introduce you to my new colleague?