01
zutreffen
to be true
To be right, correct, or in accordance with the truth.
example
Die Beschreibung im Prospekt trifft voll und ganz zu.
The description in the brochure is completely true.
zutreffen
to be true / to apply
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Zutreffen' (to be true / to apply) is a separable verb. The prefix 'zu' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Diese Beschreibung trifft genau zu.
This description is exactly true.
Fixed preposition
When 'zutreffen' (to apply) means that something is valid for someone or something, it is always used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative. The structure is: etwas trifft auf jemanden/etwas zu (something applies to someone/something).
EXAMPLE
Die Kritik trifft auf alle Abteilungen zu.
The criticism applies to all departments.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'to be true', 'zutreffen' is often combined with adverbs that indicate the degree of accuracy. Common combinations are 'voll zutreffen' (to be completely true), 'genau zutreffen' (to be exactly true), or 'nicht ganz zutreffen' (to not be entirely true).
EXAMPLE
Deine Vermutung hat voll zugetroffen.
Your guess turned out to be completely true.
Compare with
zutreffen vs gelten
to apply / be valid
'gelten' and 'zutreffen' can both mean that something fits a particular situation. However, 'gelten' is often used with rules, conditions, or statements that apply to someone or something. 'zutreffen' puts more emphasis on a statement being correct or corresponding to the truth. Learners can easily confuse the words because you can sometimes say both 'Das gilt für mich' (That applies to me) and 'Das trifft auf mich zu' (That applies to me). As a guide: with rules, 'gelten' sounds more natural; when asking whether a statement is true, 'zutreffen' fits better.
zutreffen
Pauls Beschreibung trifft auf die Situation genau zu.
Paul's description applies exactly to the situation.
gelten
Diese Regel gilt auch für neue Mitarbeiter.
This rule also applies to new employees.
In real life
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