At the A1 level, the word 'erbauen' is generally too advanced for active use. Students at this stage focus on basic verbs like 'bauen' (to build) or 'machen' (to make). However, you might encounter the past participle 'erbaut' in very simple contexts, such as reading a sign on a famous building during a trip to Germany. For example, a sign might say 'Erbaut 1850'. Even if you don't know the full conjugation of the verb, recognizing this root can help you understand historical dates. You won't be expected to use it in your own sentences yet. Focus on 'bauen' for now. If you do see it, just remember it's a 'fancy' version of 'bauen'. It's like the difference between 'build' and 'construct' in English. Most A1 textbooks will stick to 'bauen' because it's used in everyday life for things like houses, towers, and Lego. 'Erbauen' is something you'll meet later as you start reading more about German history and culture. Just keep it in the back of your mind as a marker for historical dates on buildings.
By the A2 level, you are expanding your vocabulary to include more specific terms. While 'erbauen' is still not a core vocabulary word, you might start seeing it in simple reading passages about famous German cities or landmarks like the 'Kölner Dom' or 'Schloss Neuschwanstein'. You should begin to recognize that 'erbauen' is used specifically for these grand structures. You might also learn that it's an inseparable verb, meaning the 'er-' doesn't move. In A2, you are learning about the past tense (Perfekt), so seeing 'hat erbaut' in a text is a good opportunity to notice that it doesn't have the 'ge-' prefix. You still don't need to use it in your daily conversations, but you should be able to translate it correctly when you see it in a historical context. If you visit a museum, you'll see it everywhere. It's a useful 'passive' word to know at this stage. It helps you understand that German has different levels of formality, and this is one of the more formal words.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand more complex texts and express yourself with more variety. 'Erbauen' starts to become more relevant here, especially when you are talking about travel, history, or cultural heritage. You should be able to use 'erbauen' in the passive voice, which is very common: 'Die Brücke wurde im 19. Jahrhundert erbaut.' This is a great way to show that you can handle more sophisticated vocabulary than just 'gebaut'. You might also encounter the adjective 'erbaulich' in a literary context, although the reflexive use 'sich erbauen an' is still quite advanced. At B1, you should understand the difference between 'bauen' (general) and 'erbauen' (monumental/grand). You can start using it in your writing assignments when discussing landmarks or historical events. It shows the examiner that you have a command of higher-register vocabulary. You should also be aware that it's an inseparable verb and practice its conjugation in various tenses.
B2 is the level where 'erbauen' is officially part of your active vocabulary. You are expected to understand both its physical meaning (to construct grand buildings) and its metaphorical meaning (to edify or uplift). You should be comfortable using the reflexive construction 'sich an etwas erbauen' to describe an intellectual or spiritual experience. For example, 'Ich erbaue mich an klassischer Musik.' This shows a high level of linguistic nuance. You should also understand the noun 'Erbauung' and how it's used in formal or religious contexts. At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'erbauen' from similar verbs like 'errichten' or 'konstruieren'. You might use 'erbauen' in a debate about architecture or in an essay about the importance of cultural monuments. Your understanding of the word should include its slightly archaic or formal tone, and you should know when it's appropriate to use it and when it might sound too stiff. This is a key word for reaching a professional level of German.
At the C1 level, you should have a deep and nuanced understanding of 'erbauen'. You can use it effortlessly in both its literal and metaphorical senses. You should be aware of its historical and religious connotations and be able to interpret it in classical literature or philosophy. You might encounter it in the works of Goethe or Schiller, where it often carries a heavy spiritual weight. You should also be able to recognize and use the ironic sense of 'erbaulich' in modern German, where it's often used to describe something that is decidedly *not* pleasant. Your ability to use 'erbauen' in complex sentence structures, such as within relative clauses or with various modal verbs, should be second nature. You can discuss the 'Erbauungsgeschichte' (history of construction) of a cathedral or the 'erbauliche Wirkung' (edifying effect) of a piece of art. At this stage, you are not just using the word; you are using it to convey specific cultural and intellectual values that are deeply rooted in the German language.
For C2 learners, 'erbauen' is a tool for stylistic precision. You understand its place in the history of the German language, from its roots in architectural terminology to its peak during the Pietism movement, where 'Erbauungsliteratur' (edifying literature) was a major genre. You can use the word to create specific atmospheres in your writing, whether you are aiming for a sense of historical grandeur or a touch of intellectual irony. You are comfortable with all its derivatives and can use them in highly formal or academic contexts. You might use 'erbauen' to describe the conceptual 'building' of a philosophical system or a legal framework. Your command of the word allows you to appreciate its resonance in hymns, classical poetry, and high-level journalism. At this level, 'erbauen' is more than just a verb; it's a part of your cultural literacy, allowing you to engage with the deepest levels of German thought and expression. You can navigate the fine line between its literal, metaphorical, and ironic uses with complete confidence.

erbauen در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • Erbauen is a formal German verb primarily used for constructing grand, historical, or monumental buildings like cathedrals and castles, rather than everyday structures.
  • It has a significant metaphorical meaning: to edify or spiritually uplift. This is often used reflexively with the preposition 'an' and the dative case.
  • Grammatically, it is an inseparable verb. The past participle is 'erbaut', and it never takes the 'ge-' prefix common to many other German verbs.
  • While common in historical texts and high culture, it is rare in casual speech, where 'bauen' is preferred for physical building and 'freuen' for enjoyment.
The German verb erbauen is a sophisticated and multifaceted term that primarily exists in the realm of B2 and higher German proficiency. At its core, it means 'to build' or 'to construct,' but it carries a weight and a sense of grandeur that the simple verb 'bauen' lacks. When you use erbauen, you are not talking about putting together a shelf from IKEA or building a simple garden shed; rather, you are referring to the creation of significant, often historical or monumental structures like cathedrals, castles, or city walls. The prefix 'er-' in German often denotes the beginning of a process or the successful completion of an action, and in the case of erbauen, it implies the monumental effort required to bring a great structure into existence. Beyond the physical act of construction, erbauen has a profound metaphorical meaning: to edify or to uplift spiritually and intellectually. This reflexive usage, sich an etwas erbauen, describes the feeling of being moved or inspired by a piece of art, a sermon, or a beautiful landscape.
Architectural Context
Used for significant buildings such as 'Der Dom wurde im 12. Jahrhundert erbaut' (The cathedral was built in the 12th century).
Spiritual/Intellectual Context
Used reflexively to describe being edified: 'Er erbaute sich an den Klängen der Orgel' (He was edified by the sounds of the organ).
Historical Context
Commonly found in history books and museum plaques describing the founding of monuments.

Die alten Griechen erbauten den Parthenon auf der Akropolis.

Man kann sich an der Schönheit der Natur wahrhaft erbauen.

Diese Predigt war dazu gedacht, die Gemeinde zu erbauen.

Das Denkmal wurde zur Ehre des Dichters erbaut.

Sie erbaute sich an der Lektüre klassischer Literatur.

In modern conversational German, 'erbauen' is rare unless you are discussing history, architecture, or philosophy. Using it to describe building a normal house might sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic. However, in written German, particularly in literature or formal reports, it is the standard word for significant construction. The word also appears in the noun form 'Erbauung', which refers to edification or the act of building. Understanding 'erbauen' allows you to navigate the nuances of German culture, where the distinction between the mundane and the monumental is often reflected in the vocabulary chosen.
Using erbauen correctly requires an understanding of its transitivity and its reflexive possibilities. As a transitive verb, it takes an accusative object—the thing being built. For example, 'Die Römer erbauten viele Brücken' (The Romans built many bridges). Here, 'viele Brücken' is the direct object. Note that 'erbauen' is an inseparable verb; the prefix 'er-' never detaches, even in the imperative or when forming the past participle. Therefore, the past participle is simply 'erbaut', not 'geerbaut'. This is a common point of confusion for learners who are used to the 'ge-' prefix for verbs like 'bauen' (participle: gebaut). In the passive voice, which is very common with this verb when discussing historical buildings, it looks like this: 'Das Schloss wurde 1750 erbaut' (The castle was built in 1750).
Transitive Usage
Subject + erbauen + Accusative Object. Example: 'Der Architekt erbaute ein Meisterwerk.'
Reflexive Usage
Subject + sich + erbauen + an + Dative. Example: 'Ich erbaue mich an diesem Gedicht.'
Passive Usage
Subject + werden + erbaut. Example: 'Die Kirche wird gerade erbaut.'

Es ist schwer, ein solches Monument zu erbauen.

Er erbaute sich an der Aussicht vom Gipfel.

Wer hat dieses Rathaus erbaut?

Die Musik diente dazu, die Zuhörer zu erbauen.

Sich an den Werken alter Meister zu erbauen, ist ein Privileg.

When speaking about the metaphorical side, 'erbauen' often appears in religious or philosophical contexts. A 'erbauliches Buch' (an edifying book) is one that improves the reader's character or spirit. In this way, the word connects the physical act of building a cathedral with the spiritual act of building a soul. In your writing, use 'erbauen' when you want to elevate the tone. If you are describing the history of a city, use 'erbauen' for its landmarks. If you are writing a review of a concert and found it deeply moving in a structured, intellectual way, 'erbauen' is the perfect choice to convey that depth.
You are most likely to encounter erbauen in specific settings that favor formal or elevated language. One of the most common places is during a guided tour of a European city. Tour guides will frequently say things like, 'Dieses Gebäude wurde von einem berühmten Architekten erbaut' (This building was built by a famous architect). You will also see it on the blue historical plaques found on the walls of old German houses or public buildings, which usually list the year of construction and the name of the person who commissioned it. Another major domain for 'erbauen' is in the context of classical music and literature. Music critics might write about how a symphony 'erbaute das Publikum' (edified the audience). In religious settings, particularly within the Lutheran tradition in Germany, 'erbauen' is used to describe the purpose of a sermon or a hymn—to provide 'Erbauung' (edification) to the faithful.
Tourism & History
Found on plaques: 'Erbaut im Jahre 1892'.
Art & Literature
Used in reviews of high art or intellectually stimulating works.
Theology
Describing the spiritual effect of a religious service.

Die Stadtmauer wurde zum Schutz der Bürger erbaut.

Es ist ein erbaulicher Anblick, den Sonnenaufgang zu sehen.

Diese Kathedrale wurde über Jahrhunderte hinweg erbaut.

Man erbaute das Denkmal in der Mitte des Platzes.

Sich an der Natur zu erbauen, ist der beste Weg zur Ruhe.

In academic writing, 'erbauen' is used when discussing the 'Konstruktion' (construction) of identities or social systems, though 'konstruieren' is more common in modern sociology. However, the legacy of 'erbauen' remains in phrases like 'eine neue Weltordnung erbauen' (to build a new world order), suggesting a grand and systematic effort. If you are watching a German documentary about the Middle Ages or the Renaissance, listen for the narrator using 'erbauen' to describe the architectural feats of those eras. It provides a sense of reverence and historical weight that fits the subject matter perfectly.
The most frequent mistake learners make with erbauen is using it in contexts that are too mundane. Because it is a synonym for 'bauen', students often assume they can be used interchangeably. However, saying 'Ich habe gestern ein Vogelhaus erbaut' (I built a birdhouse yesterday) sounds comically grandiose, as if the birdhouse were a Gothic cathedral. Use 'bauen' for everyday objects and 'erbauen' for significant structures. Another major grammatical error is treating 'erbauen' as a separable verb. Because it starts with 'er-', it is inseparable. You should never say 'ich baue es er' or 'ich habe es geerbaut'. The correct forms are 'ich erbaue es' and 'ich habe es erbaut'.
Register Mismatch
Using 'erbauen' for small items like Lego or furniture. Use 'bauen' or 'zusammenbauen' instead.
Prefix Confusion
Mistakenly adding 'ge-' to the past participle. Correct: erbaut. Incorrect: geerbaut.
Preposition Errors
In the reflexive sense, using 'über' or 'von' instead of 'an'. Correct: 'sich an etwas erbauen'.

Falsch: Ich habe eine Sandburg geerbaut.

Richtig: Ich habe eine Sandburg gebaut.

Falsch: Die Kirche wurde gebaut (too simple for a cathedral).

Richtig: Die Kirche wurde erbaut.

Falsch: Ich erbaue mich über die Musik.

Another subtle mistake is confusing 'erbauen' with 'bebauen'. While 'erbauen' refers to the act of constructing a specific building, 'bebauen' refers to the act of developing a plot of land (e.g., 'das Grundstück bebauen'). If you say you 'erbauen' a plot of land, it sounds like you are physically lifting the earth into a building shape. Finally, remember that the adjective 'erbaulich' is almost always used in a positive sense, but in modern German, it is frequently used ironically to mean the opposite. If someone says 'Der Zustand des Badezimmers war wenig erbaulich', they are politely saying it was disgusting. Pay attention to the tone and context to catch these ironic uses.
To truly master erbauen, you should know its synonyms and how they differ in nuance. The most obvious alternative is 'bauen', which is the neutral, all-purpose word for building anything. Then there is 'errichten', which is very close to 'erbauen' but focuses more on the physical act of setting something upright, like a monument, a wall, or a tent. 'Errichten' is often used in administrative or technical contexts. 'Konstruieren' is used for engineering and technical design, while 'anlegen' is used for gardens, parks, or cemeteries. For the metaphorical sense of 'erbauen' (to edify), you might use 'belehren' (to instruct), 'inspirieren' (to inspire), or 'bereichern' (to enrich).
erbauen vs. bauen
'Erbauen' is grand and formal; 'bauen' is general and everyday.
erbauen vs. errichten
'Errichten' is technical and physical; 'erbauen' often has an artistic or historical connotation.
erbauen vs. konstruieren
'Konstruieren' implies engineering and logic; 'erbauen' implies creation and lasting value.

Wir müssen ein neues System errichten (administrative).

Er konstruiert eine neue Brücke (engineering).

Diese Musik wird dich inspirieren (emotional uplift).

Sie erbauten eine prachtvolle Residenz (artistic/grand).

Die Gemeinde erbaute sich an den Worten des Pastors (spiritual).

In summary, 'erbauen' sits at the intersection of architecture and the soul. It is a word that honors the effort of the past and the elevation of the spirit. While 'bauen' gets the job done, 'erbauen' creates a legacy. When choosing between these words, ask yourself: Is this something that will be remembered in a hundred years? Is this something that makes the heart feel fuller? If the answer is yes, 'erbauen' is likely the word you need. By mastering these distinctions, you move from simply communicating to truly expressing yourself in German.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The metaphorical meaning of 'spiritual edification' became popular in the 17th and 18th centuries through religious movements like Pietism.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /ɛɐ̯ˈbaʊ̯ən/
US /ɛrˈbaʊən/
Second syllable (er-BAU-en).
هم‌قافیه با
vertrauen schauen kauen brauen grauen tauen hauen stauen
خطاهای رایج
  • Stressing the first syllable (ER-bauen) - Incorrect.
  • Pronouncing the 'er' like 'her' - Incorrect.
  • Making the 'au' sound like 'oh' - Incorrect.
  • Adding a 'ge-' sound in the past tense - Incorrect.
  • Pronouncing the 'en' too clearly (it should be a schwa) - Minor error.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 4/5

Common in historical and literary texts, requires understanding of register.

نوشتن 7/5

Requires careful choice to avoid sounding overly formal or sarcastic.

صحبت کردن 8/5

Rarely used in casual speech; mostly used in guided tours or formal discussions.

گوش دادن 5/5

Easy to recognize due to the root 'bau', but prefix 'er-' must be noted.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

bauen Gebäude Haus hoch machen

بعداً یاد بگیرید

errichten konstruieren bebauen umbauen Architektur

پیشرفته

Erbauungsliteratur Sakralbau Monumentalität Teleologie

گرامر لازم

Inseparable Prefixes

Verbs starting with 'er-' like 'erbauen' are inseparable.

Past Participle of Inseparable Verbs

They do not take 'ge-'. Example: 'erbaut'.

Passive Voice with 'werden'

Historical facts often use: 'Das Haus wurde erbaut'.

Reflexive Verbs with Prepositions

'Sich erbauen' requires 'an' + Dative.

Adjectives from Participles

'Erbaulich' is derived from the verb 'erbauen'.

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

Das Haus ist alt und wurde 1900 erbaut.

The house is old and was built in 1900.

Passive voice with 'wurde'.

2

Wer hat diesen Turm erbaut?

Who built this tower?

Inseparable verb in Perfekt.

3

Die Kirche wurde vor 500 Jahren erbaut.

The church was built 500 years ago.

Simple passive construction.

4

Dieses Schloss ist sehr groß und alt erbaut.

This castle is very large and built long ago.

Adverbial use of 'alt erbaut'.

5

Man hat die Mauer aus Stein erbaut.

They built the wall out of stone.

Active voice with 'man'.

6

Die Stadt wurde an einem Fluss erbaut.

The city was built by a river.

Prepositional phrase 'an einem Fluss'.

7

Dieses Denkmal wurde für den König erbaut.

This monument was built for the king.

Dative after 'für' (Wait, 'für' takes Accusative, grammar note: 'für den König').

8

Sie erbauten ein Nest.

They built a nest (unusual but possible in stories).

Präteritum form.

1

Die Römer erbauten viele Brücken in Europa.

The Romans built many bridges in Europe.

Historical use of Präteritum.

2

Das Rathaus wurde im Krieg zerstört und neu erbaut.

The town hall was destroyed in the war and rebuilt.

Prefix 'neu-' with 'erbaut'.

3

Wann wurde das Brandenburger Tor erbaut?

When was the Brandenburg Gate built?

Interrogative sentence.

4

Der Architekt hat das Museum modern erbaut.

The architect built the museum in a modern style.

Adverbial 'modern'.

5

Diese Burg wurde zum Schutz erbaut.

This castle was built for protection.

Final clause with 'zu'.

6

Die Pyramiden wurden in Ägypten erbaut.

The pyramids were built in Egypt.

Plural passive.

7

Man erbaute die Kathedrale über viele Jahre.

The cathedral was built over many years.

Temporal phrase 'über viele Jahre'.

8

Dieses Theater wurde 1850 erbaut.

This theater was built in 1850.

Passive voice.

1

Es ist faszinierend zu sehen, wie man damals solche Dome erbaute.

It is fascinating to see how they built such cathedrals back then.

Subordinate clause with 'wie'.

2

Die Stadtmauer wurde erbaut, um die Stadt vor Feinden zu sichern.

The city wall was built to secure the city from enemies.

Infinitivsatz with 'um...zu'.

3

Viele Denkmäler wurden zu Ehren berühmter Dichter erbaut.

Many monuments were built in honor of famous poets.

Genitive after 'zu Ehren'.

4

Der Palast wurde prachtvoll erbaut und reich verziert.

The palace was magnificently built and richly decorated.

Adjectives used as adverbs.

5

Man erbaute die Siedlung nach dem Vorbild einer Gartenstadt.

The settlement was built on the model of a garden city.

Preposition 'nach'.

6

Diese Brücke wurde erst vor kurzem neu erbaut.

This bridge was only recently rebuilt.

Adverbial 'vor kurzem'.

7

Die Pyramiden zu erbauen, war eine enorme Leistung.

Building the pyramids was an enormous achievement.

Infinitive as a subject.

8

Das Denkmal wurde an der Stelle erbaut, wo der König starb.

The monument was built at the spot where the king died.

Relative clause with 'wo'.

1

Ich erbaue mich oft an der Stille des Waldes.

I often edify myself in the silence of the forest.

Reflexive 'sich erbauen an' + Dative.

2

Die Predigt war sehr erbaulich für die ganze Gemeinde.

The sermon was very edifying for the whole congregation.

Adjective 'erbaulich'.

3

Der Architekt erbaute nicht nur Häuser, sondern ganze Lebenswelten.

The architect built not just houses, but entire living worlds.

Correlative conjunction 'nicht nur...sondern auch'.

4

Sich an schöner Literatur zu erbauen, ist ein wahres Vergnügen.

To be edified by beautiful literature is a true pleasure.

Infinitive phrase with 'zu'.

5

Das Museum wurde erbaut, um die Geschichte der Stadt zu dokumentieren.

The museum was built to document the city's history.

Purpose clause with 'um...zu'.

6

Er erbaute sich an den komplexen Strukturen der Mathematik.

He found edification in the complex structures of mathematics.

Metaphorical use of 'erbauen'.

7

Die monumentale Treppe wurde eigens für den Staatsbesuch erbaut.

The monumental staircase was built specifically for the state visit.

Adverb 'eigens'.

8

Es ist wenig erbaulich, den ganzen Tag vor dem Fernseher zu sitzen.

It is not very edifying to sit in front of the TV all day.

Ironic use of 'erbaulich'.

1

Die Erbauung dieses Doms dauerte mehrere Generationen.

The construction of this cathedral took several generations.

Noun 'Erbauung'.

2

In seinen Schriften erbaute er ein gedankliches System von großer Tiefe.

In his writings, he built a thought system of great depth.

Abstract transitive use.

3

Sie erbaute sich an der Fuge von Bach, die sie gerade hörte.

She was edified by the Bach fugue she was listening to.

Reflexive with 'an' + Dative.

4

Das wenig erbauliche Ergebnis der Verhandlungen enttäuschte alle.

The unedifying result of the negotiations disappointed everyone.

Ironic/negative use of 'erbaulich'.

5

Die antiken Baumeister erbauten Tempel für die Ewigkeit.

The ancient master builders built temples for eternity.

Historical/Literary register.

6

Er fühlte sich durch das Gespräch innerlich erbaut.

He felt internally edified by the conversation.

Participle used as an adjective.

7

Die Erbauungsliteratur des 17. Jahrhunderts ist heute kaum noch bekannt.

The edifying literature of the 17th century is hardly known today.

Compound noun 'Erbauungsliteratur'.

8

Man kann sich an der moralischen Standhaftigkeit dieses Mannes erbauen.

One can be edified by the moral steadfastness of this man.

Abstract reflexive use.

1

Die sakrale Architektur dient primär dazu, den Gläubigen zu erbauen.

Sacred architecture primarily serves to edify the believer.

Formal academic register.

2

In der Romantik erbaute man sich gerne an der wilden, ungezähmten Natur.

In the Romantic era, people liked to find edification in wild, untamed nature.

Historical/Cultural context.

3

Die Komplexität des Werkes lässt den Leser sich an dessen Tiefe erbauen.

The complexity of the work allows the reader to be edified by its depth.

Causative structure with 'lassen'.

4

Es ist ein erbaulicher Gedanke, dass Kunst den Tod überdauern kann.

It is an edifying thought that art can outlast death.

Adjectival use with 'Gedanke'.

5

Die Monumentalität, mit der das Forum erbaut wurde, zeugt von Macht.

The monumentality with which the forum was built testifies to power.

Relative clause with preposition.

6

Er erbaute seine Argumentation auf einem Fundament aus Lügen.

He built his argument on a foundation of lies.

Metaphorical transitive use.

7

Die Erbauung einer neuen Gesellschaftsordnung ist ein mühsamer Prozess.

The building of a new social order is a laborious process.

Abstract noun usage.

8

Sich an der eigenen Tugend zu erbauen, grenzt oft an Hochmut.

To be edified by one's own virtue often borders on pride.

Philosophical reflexive use.

ترکیب‌های رایج

eine Kirche erbauen
ein Denkmal erbauen
sich an etwas erbauen
prachtvoll erbaut
nach Plänen erbaut
neu erbaut
zur Ehre erbaut
massiv erbaut
eigens erbaut
wenig erbaulich

عبارات رایج

Erbaut im Jahre...

— Built in the year... (Common on plaques).

Erbaut im Jahre 1745.

Zur Erbauung dienen

— To serve for edification or enjoyment.

Diese Lieder dienen zur Erbauung.

Sich geistig erbauen

— To uplift oneself mentally or spiritually.

Er erbaute sich geistig an der Philosophie.

Ein erbauliches Buch

— An edifying or uplifting book.

Sie liest ein erbauliches Buch.

Nicht sehr erbaulich sein

— To be unpleasant or disappointing (ironic).

Sein Benehmen war nicht sehr erbaulich.

Ein Denkmal für die Ewigkeit erbauen

— To build a monument for eternity.

Sie erbauten ein Denkmal für die Ewigkeit.

An Gottes Wort erbauen

— To find spiritual strength in the word of God.

Die Gläubigen erbauten sich an Gottes Wort.

Erbaut nach dem Vorbild von...

— Built on the model of...

Erbaut nach dem Vorbild des Pantheons.

Wieder erbaut werden

— To be rebuilt.

Die Stadt wurde nach dem Brand wieder erbaut.

Ein Meisterwerk erbauen

— To construct a masterpiece.

Er erbaute ein architektonisches Meisterwerk.

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

erbauen vs bebauen

Bebauen refers to developing a whole area of land, while erbauen is for a specific building.

erbauen vs umbauen

Umbauen means to renovate or remodel, not to construct from scratch.

erbauen vs aufbauen

Aufbauen is often used for temporary things or assembling parts, like a shelf or a tent.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"Sich an etwas weidlich erbauen"

— To enjoy something thoroughly (often slightly ironic).

Er erbaute sich weidlich an dem Missgeschick seines Gegners.

informal/ironic
"Luftschlösser erbauen"

— To build castles in the air (daydreaming). Note: 'bauen' is more common here, but 'erbauen' adds a poetic touch.

Hör auf, Luftschlösser zu erbauen!

literary
"Auf Sand erbauen"

— To build on sand (to have an unstable foundation).

Ihre ganze Theorie ist auf Sand erbaut.

figurative
"Ein Haus auf Fels erbauen"

— To build a house on rock (to have a solid foundation).

Er hat seine Karriere auf Fels erbaut.

figurative
"Zur Erbauung der Menschheit"

— For the edification of humanity (often used grandiosely).

Er schrieb Sinfonien zur Erbauung der Menschheit.

formal
"Wenig erbauliche Nachrichten"

— Unpleasant news.

Wir erhielten heute wenig erbauliche Nachrichten aus der Zentrale.

neutral/ironic
"Ein Denkmal im Herzen erbauen"

— To cherish someone's memory forever.

Wir werden ihm ein Denkmal in unseren Herzen erbauen.

poetic
"Sich an der Natur erbauen"

— To find peace/joy in nature.

Am Wochenende erbauen wir uns an der Natur.

neutral
"Erbauung suchen"

— To seek spiritual or intellectual comfort.

In schweren Zeiten suchte sie Erbauung im Gebet.

formal
"An den alten Meistern erbauen"

— To find inspiration in the works of great artists of the past.

Junge Maler sollten sich an den alten Meistern erbauen.

formal

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

erbauen vs errichten

Both mean 'to build/erect'.

Errichten is more physical and technical; erbauen is more artistic and historical.

Sie errichteten eine Barrikade. Er erbaute eine Kathedrale.

erbauen vs konstruieren

Both involve creation.

Konstruieren is for engineering and logic; erbauen is for monuments and the soul.

Er konstruiert Motoren. Er erbaute ein Denkmal.

erbauen vs anlegen

Both used for creation.

Anlegen is for horizontal things like gardens or parks; erbauen is for vertical buildings.

Sie legten einen Park an. Sie erbauten einen Turm.

erbauen vs begründen

Both mean starting something.

Begründen is for institutions or arguments; erbauen is for physical structures.

Er begründete eine Firma. Er erbaute ein Haus.

erbauen vs stiften

Both involve giving/creating.

Stiften is to donate or establish; erbauen is the physical act of building.

Er stiftete die Kirche, die dann erbaut wurde.

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

B1

X wurde im Jahr Y erbaut.

Der Dom wurde im Jahr 1248 erbaut.

B2

Ich erbaue mich an (Dativ).

Ich erbaue mich an der klassischen Musik.

B2

Das ist wenig erbaulich.

Das Wetter heute ist wenig erbaulich.

C1

Zur Erbauung von (Dativ) dienen.

Diese Texte dienen zur Erbauung der Leser.

C1

Ein prachtvoll erbautes Gebäude.

Wir besuchten ein prachtvoll erbautes Gebäude.

C2

Sich an der Tugend anderer erbauen.

Er erbaute sich an der Tugend seiner Vorfahren.

C2

Erbaut auf einem Fundament von...

Die Theorie ist erbaut auf einem Fundament von Logik.

B1

Wer hat X erbaut?

Wer hat diese Brücke erbaut?

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

die Erbauung
der Erbauer
die Erbauungsliteratur
der Kirchenbau

فعل‌ها

bauen
aufbauen
ausbauen
bebauen
umbauen
verbauen

صفت‌ها

erbaulich
unverbaut
baubar

مرتبط

das Gebäude
der Bau
die Baustelle
der Baumeister
die Baukunst

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Common in written history, rare in spoken daily German.

اشتباهات رایج
  • Ich habe das Haus geerbaut. Ich habe das Haus erbaut.

    Inseparable verbs do not use the 'ge-' prefix in the past participle.

  • Ich baue das Schloss er. Ich erbaue das Schloss.

    The prefix 'er-' is inseparable; it never moves to the end of the sentence.

  • Ich erbaue mich über die Musik. Ich erbaue mich an der Musik.

    The reflexive verb 'sich erbauen' always takes the preposition 'an'.

  • Der Architekt erbaute ein kleines Vogelhaus. Der Architekt baute ein kleines Vogelhaus.

    Using 'erbauen' for tiny, mundane objects sounds unnaturally grandiose.

  • Das ist eine erbauliche Situation (when it's bad). Das ist eine wenig erbauliche Situation.

    To use irony correctly, you usually need the word 'wenig' (little) or 'nicht gerade' (not exactly).

نکات

No 'ge-'

Always remember that 'erbauen' is an inseparable verb. The past participle is 'erbaut'. Never say 'geerbaut'!

Grandeur

Reserve 'erbauen' for buildings that have historical or artistic significance. It adds 'class' to your German.

Irony Alert

Pay attention to context. If a German describes a mess as 'wenig erbaulich', they are being sarcastic.

Soul Building

Use 'sich erbauen an' to talk about things that move you deeply, like a sunset or a great symphony.

Date Marker

Look for 'erbaut' on plaques when traveling. It's the most common word for 'built in [year]'.

Formal Writing

In essays about culture or history, 'erbauen' is much better than 'bauen'.

Dative Link

Always use 'an' + Dative with the reflexive form. 'Ich erbaue mich an dem (Dat) Anblick'.

Choose Wisely

If it's technical, use 'errichten'. If it's grand, use 'erbauen'. If it's basic, use 'bauen'.

Documentary Key

This word is a 'keyword' for historical documentaries. It usually precedes a date or a name.

Self-Edification

The reflexive use is a great way to express sophisticated enjoyment in B2/C1 exams.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of 'ER-bauen' as 'EXTRA-building'. It's not just building (bauen), it's building something EXTRA grand or EXTRA uplifting.

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a giant cathedral being finished (er-) and a person looking up at it feeling inspired (edified).

شبکه واژگان

Kathedrale Schloss Geist Seele Geschichte Architektur Inspiration Monument

چالش

Try to write three sentences: one about a historical building, one about a piece of music you love, and one using 'erbaulich' ironically.

ریشه کلمه

From Middle High German 'erbouwen', combining the prefix 'er-' (denoting result or completion) with 'bouwen' (to cultivate, to build).

معنای اصلی: To bring a building to completion or to cultivate land.

Germanic.

بافت فرهنگی

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using it for modern, low-quality buildings as it might sound insulting or sarcastic.

The English word 'edify' is the closest equivalent for the metaphorical sense, while 'construct' or 'erect' works for the physical sense.

Goethe's 'Faust' (mentions of building and soul) Bach's Cantatas (written for 'Erbauung') Luther's Bible translation (usage of 'erbauen')

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Historical Tourism

  • Wann wurde es erbaut?
  • Wer hat es erbaut?
  • Erbaut im Stil der...
  • Prachtvoll erbaut.

Art/Music Appreciation

  • Ich erbaue mich an der Musik.
  • Ein erbauliches Konzert.
  • Geistige Erbauung.
  • Sich an Kunst erbauen.

Religious Settings

  • Zur Erbauung der Gemeinde.
  • Eine erbauliche Predigt.
  • Erbauungsstunde.
  • Glaubenserbauung.

Irony/Sarcasm

  • Wenig erbaulich.
  • Nicht gerade erbaulich.
  • Ein erbaulicher Anblick (ironic).
  • Das ist ja erbaulich!

Literature

  • In seinen Werken erbaut.
  • Ein Denkmal erbauen.
  • Auf Sand erbaut.
  • Erbauungsliteratur.

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"Wissen Sie, in welchem Jahrhundert diese Kirche erbaut wurde?"

"An welcher Art von Kunst erbauen Sie sich am liebsten?"

"Findest du moderne Architektur genauso erbaulich wie die klassische?"

"War die gestrige Lesung für dich erbaulich oder eher langweilig?"

"Haben die Römer in dieser Region viele Brücken erbaut?"

موضوعات نگارش

Beschreibe ein Gebäude in deiner Stadt, das besonders prachtvoll erbaut wurde.

An welchen Dingen in der Natur kannst du dich am meisten erbauen und warum?

Schreibe über ein Buch, das du als wirklich 'erbaulich' empfunden hast.

Ist es wichtig, dass neue Gebäude so erbaut werden, dass sie Jahrhunderte überdauern?

Reflektiere über einen Moment, der 'wenig erbaulich' war, und wie du damit umgegangen bist.

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

Technically yes, but it sounds very formal or old-fashioned. 'Bauen' is much more natural for everyday housing. Use 'erbauen' if the house is a historical villa or a masterpiece.

No, it is inseparable. The prefix 'er-' stays attached to the root 'bauen' in all forms (e.g., ich erbaue, er erbaute, hat erbaut).

'Gebaut' is the past participle of 'bauen' (neutral), while 'erbaut' is the past participle of 'erbauen' (formal/monumental). 'Erbaut' never takes the 'ge-' prefix.

You use 'sich erbauen an' followed by the dative case. For example: 'Ich erbaue mich an der schönen Musik.' It means you find spiritual or intellectual pleasure in it.

It literally means 'little edifying,' but it is used as a polite or ironic way to say that something is unpleasant, disappointing, or even gross.

It is common in religious contexts (sermons, hymns) and in formal art criticism. In daily life, it's mostly heard in the ironic phrase 'zur Erbauung'.

Yes, you can 'erbauen' a system of thought, a theory, or a new society. It implies a grand and structured effort.

In its literal sense, yes. However, in modern German, it is frequently used ironically to describe something negative.

In German, verbs with inseparable prefixes like 'er-', 'be-', 'ver-', 'ent-', etc., do not add 'ge-' in the past participle.

Only if you are joking. It would sound like you are treating the Lego house like a holy cathedral.

خودت رو بسنج 200 سوال

writing

Write a sentence using 'erbaut' in the passive voice about a castle.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'sich erbauen an' to describe your reaction to a piece of music.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write an ironic sentence using 'wenig erbaulich'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe the purpose of a monument using 'erbauen'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'erbauen' metaphorically about a theory or idea.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a short dialogue where someone asks when a church was built.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe a historical achievement using 'erbauen'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Explain why 'erbauliche Bücher' are important for some people.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use the noun 'Erbauung' in a formal sentence.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'erbauen' about the future of society.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe a sunset using the reflexive 'erbauen'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'erbauen' to describe a master architect's work.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence about rebuilding a city after a fire.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'erbaulich' to describe a positive conversation.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe a museum's history using 'erbauen'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'Erbauer' (builder).

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'erbauen' in a sentence about a bridge.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe a boring movie using 'wenig erbaulich'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence about ancient temples.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'erbauen' to express intellectual enrichment.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce 'erbauen' and record it.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask a question about when a building was built.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Describe a beautiful painting using 'erbauen'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'wenig erbaulich' to describe a bad situation.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain the difference between 'bauen' and 'erbauen'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Talk about a historical monument you know.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'I am edified by the music'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask who built the pyramids.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'The castle was built for the king'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain why you like a certain book using 'erbaulich'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Tell a short story about a builder.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Describe a messy room using irony.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask if a sermon was edifying.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'We built a monument in our hearts'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce 'Erbauungsliteratur'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'The bridge was rebuilt after the war'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain what 'sich erbauen' means to you.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Built in 1850'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Talk about an architect you admire.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'The results were not very edifying'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Die Kirche wurde 1200 erbaut.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Ich erbaue mich an der Kunst.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Ein wenig erbaulicher Anblick.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Wer hat das Denkmal erbaut?'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Die Erbauung dauerte Jahre.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Erbaut zur Ehre Gottes.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Ein prachtvoll erbautes Schloss.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Sich geistig erbauen.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Wieder erbaut nach dem Brand.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Das ist eine erbauliche Geschichte.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Der Erbauer war berühmt.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Erbaut im gotischen Stil.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Wenig erbauliche Nachrichten.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Man erbaute die Pyramiden.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write down: 'Zur Erbauung der Gemeinde.'

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

/ 200 درست

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