to join forces / connect
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to join forces
People, groups, or companies unite in order to pursue a common goal or form a larger unit.
Mehrere kleine Brauereien haben sich zusammengeschlossen, um besser gegen die großen Konzerne bestehen zu können.
Several small breweries joined forces in order to better compete against the large corporations.
'Zusammenschließen' (to join forces / connect) is a separable verb. The prefix 'zusammen-' stands at the end in main clauses, while it remains attached to the verb in subordinate clauses. In the infinitive with 'zu', 'zu' stands between the prefix and the verb.
Die beiden Firmen schließen sich zusammen.
The two companies are joining forces.
The verb consists of the prefix 'zusammen' (together) and the verb 'schließen' (to close). The meaning is often to be understood literally: you 'close' or connect things or people 'together' into one unit.
Um den Stromkreis zu aktivieren, müssen Sie die beiden Drähte zusammenschließen.
To activate the circuit, you have to connect the two wires.
The use of the reflexive pronoun 'sich' is a clear signal. 'Sich zusammenschließen' means that people or groups unite. Without 'sich', it usually refers to the physical connecting of objects.
Die Anwohner haben sich zu einer Initiative zusammengeschlossen.
The residents joined together to form an initiative.
When people or groups join forces, the goal or the new form is often expressed with 'zu' + dative or an 'um ... zu' construction.
Die Künstler schlossen sich zu einer neuen Gruppe zusammen.
The artists joined together to form a new group.
to connect / to bandage
'verbinden' and 'zusammenschließen' can both mean that separate parts or groups become one unit. 'verbinden' is more general and works for things, technology, and also people or groups. 'zusammenschließen' emphasizes more strongly that several people, groups, or companies act together or form a larger unit. With objects, 'zusammenschließen' sounds more technical or mechanical, while 'verbinden' is more natural in many everyday situations.
Mehrere kleine Vereine schließen sich zusammen, um das Stadtfest besser zu organisieren.
Several small clubs are joining forces to organize the town festival better.
Der Techniker verbindet die beiden Kabel, damit das Licht wieder funktioniert.
The technician connects the two cables so that the light works again.