At the A1 level, you might not use the verb 'werben' very often yourself, but you will definitely see its noun form, 'Werbung' (advertisement), everywhere. Think of the colorful posters in the subway or the commercials on YouTube. At this stage, you should understand that 'werben' is the action behind those ads. It means someone is trying to sell you something or show you something interesting. You can remember it as 'to make ads.' If you want to say 'The car is on TV,' you might see the word 'werben' used in a sentence like 'Die Firma wirbt für das Auto.' The most important thing for an A1 learner is to recognize the word when you see it in a store or on a website. It is often linked to products you know, like 'Cola' or 'Handys.' You don't need to worry about the difficult past tense forms yet. Just remember: Werben = Advertising. It is a very common word in the city and on the internet.
At the A2 level, you are starting to build more complex sentences and talk about your daily life, including your work or hobbies. 'Werben' is a useful word because it helps you describe what companies do. You should learn that 'werben' is a strong verb, which means it changes its middle letter in some forms: 'ich werbe' but 'er wirbt.' You will mostly use it with the preposition 'für' to say what someone is advertising. For example, 'Wir werben für unser neues Café.' You might also use it when talking about looking for new members for a club or a sports team: 'Wir werben Mitglieder.' This is a great level to start noticing the difference between the verb 'werben' and the noun 'die Werbung.' You can say 'Ich sehe viel Werbung' (I see a lot of ads) or 'Die Firmen werben viel' (The companies advertise a lot). It is a key word for understanding the world of business and media around you in Germany.
By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'werben' in various contexts, including professional and social situations. You should know how to use the simple past 'warb' and the perfect tense 'hat geworben.' At this stage, you start to learn the second important meaning of 'werben': to recruit or to court. When you use the preposition 'um,' the meaning changes from advertising a product to seeking something abstract, like 'um Unterstützung werben' (to seek support) or 'um Kunden werben' (to court customers). This is very common in news articles or business reports. You also begin to see compound verbs like 'anwerben' (to hire/recruit) or 'abwerben' (to poach). A B1 learner should be able to explain a marketing campaign using this verb: 'Die Firma hat mit Plakaten und Videos für das neue Produkt geworben.' You are moving beyond simple identification to active, nuanced usage in your speaking and writing.
At the B2 level, 'werben' becomes a tool for more sophisticated expression. you should be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts like political campaigning or diplomatic efforts. For instance, 'Die Regierung wirbt um das Vertrauen der Bürger' (The government is campaigning for the citizens' trust). You should also be familiar with its use in the passive voice: 'Es wurde intensiv für die Reform geworben.' At this level, you are expected to understand the stylistic difference between 'werben,' 'Reklame machen,' and 'anpreisen.' You can use 'werben' to describe complex market dynamics or social movements. You should also be able to use it in the subjunctive mood for hypothetical situations: 'Wenn wir mehr werben würden, hätten wir mehr Kunden.' Your understanding of the word should now include its historical and metaphorical connotations of 'striving for' or 'turning toward' something, allowing you to use it more creatively in your essays and presentations.
At the C1 level, your use of 'werben' should be precise and varied. You understand the subtle differences between 'werben um' and 'werben für' perfectly and can use them to convey specific rhetorical goals. You might use 'werben' in a literary or high-level journalistic context, such as 'um jemandes Gunst werben' (to court someone's favor). You are also familiar with the more obscure uses of the word, such as in legal or highly technical business contexts. You can analyze how 'werben' is used in public discourse to influence opinion. For example, you might discuss how a charity 'wirbt' not just for money, but for a change in social consciousness. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'Werbewirksamkeit' (advertising effectiveness) or 'Werbeträger' (advertising medium). You can use the verb in complex sentence structures, incorporating various modal particles and advanced grammar to refine your meaning.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'werben.' You can use it with all its historical weight and modern agility. You might use it in a philosophical discussion about the nature of persuasion or in a deep analysis of German literature where a character 'um die Hand einer Dame wirbt' (seeks a lady's hand in marriage). You are aware of the word's etymological roots and how they influence its modern usage. You can effortlessly switch between formal, informal, and specialized registers. You understand the nuances of 'werben' in branding, where it's not just about selling a product but about 'werben für ein Lebensgefühl' (promoting a lifestyle). Your usage is idiomatic and culturally grounded, allowing you to recognize when 'werben' is being used ironically or with specific rhetorical flair in political speeches or high-end advertising copy. You are a master of the 'art of the pitch,' and 'werben' is one of your primary linguistic tools.

werben 30秒で

  • Werben is a strong German verb primarily meaning to advertise, recruit, or court.
  • It uses 'für' for products and 'um' for abstract goals like trust or love.
  • The stem changes from 'e' to 'i' in the singular present tense (er wirbt).
  • It is essential for discussing marketing, politics, and social organizations in German.
The German verb werben is a multifaceted term that primarily translates to "to advertise," "to promote," or "to recruit." At its core, it describes the act of trying to win someone over, whether that person is a customer, a new member of an organization, or even a romantic interest. In a modern business context, you will encounter this word constantly when discussing marketing strategies or commercial campaigns. When a company wants to increase its sales, it must werben for its products. However, the word's history is deeply rooted in the concept of 'turning' or 'striving,' which explains why it is also used in the sense of seeking support or courting someone.
Commercial Context
In the world of business, the verb is often used with the preposition für (for). For example, a company might use social media to reach younger audiences. This usage is neutral and professional, focusing on the dissemination of information to attract buyers.

Das Unternehmen muss aggressiver für seine neuen Produkte werben, um Marktanteile zu gewinnen.

Beyond business, werben is used when organizations look for new members or when political parties seek voters. This is often referred to as Mitglieder werben or um Wählerstimmen werben. The nuance here is one of persuasion and effort. You are not just providing information; you are actively trying to convince someone to join your cause or support your idea.
Interpersonal Usage
When used with the preposition um, the meaning shifts toward 'courting' or 'wooing.' This can be romantic, as in 'um jemanden werben,' or professional, as in 'um das Vertrauen der Kunden werben' (to seek the trust of customers).

Der junge Mann wirbt schon seit Monaten um ihre Gunst.

Historically, the word is related to the English word 'warp' and the Old High German 'werban,' meaning to turn. This 'turning' reflects the effort to turn someone's attention toward something. In modern German, while 'werben' is the verb, 'die Werbung' is the noun for 'advertisement' or 'advertising' in general. Understanding the shift between 'für' (for a product) and 'um' (for a person or an abstract concept like trust) is crucial for mastering this word.
Professional Recruitment
In human resources, 'abwerben' is a common derivative, meaning to poach or headhunt an employee from another company. This highlights the competitive nature of 'werben'.

Wir müssen neue Mitglieder für unseren Verein werben.

Die Partei wirbt mit Plakaten für ihre politischen Ziele.

Es ist schwierig, in dieser Branche um qualifizierte Fachkräfte zu werben.

In summary, 'werben' is your go-to verb whenever effort is being made to attract, persuade, or win over an audience or an individual. Whether you are selling a car, seeking a date, or looking for volunteers, you are 'werben'.
Using werben correctly requires attention to both its conjugation as a strong verb and its prepositional objects. Because it involves a change in the stem vowel, it can be tricky for beginners. In the present tense, the 'e' changes to 'i' in the 'du' and 'er/sie/es' forms: ich werbe, du wirbst, er wirbt. In the past tense, it becomes warb, and the perfect tense uses hat geworben.
Preposition: Für + Accusative
This is the most common construction for advertising products, services, or ideas. 'Sie werben für ein neues Auto' means 'They are advertising for a new car.' The focus is on the object being promoted.

Prominente werben oft für Luxusmarken in Zeitschriften.

Preposition: Um + Accusative
This construction is used when you are striving to obtain something abstract or someone's favor. 'Um jemanden werben' is to court someone. 'Um Stimmen werben' is to campaign for votes. It implies a sense of competition or a goal that must be earned.

Die Politiker werben vor der Wahl intensiv um jede Stimme.

Using the Passive Voice
In formal reports, you might see the passive: 'Es wurde für das Projekt geworben' (Promotion was done for the project). This shifts the focus away from who did the advertising to the fact that advertising occurred.

In diesem Magazin wird vor allem für Reisen geworben.

Warum wirbst du nicht für deine eigene Kunst?

Die Firma hat erfolgreich neue Kunden geworben.

Another important aspect is the word's flexibility in compound verbs. Anwerben is specifically used for hiring or recruiting (e.g., 'Soldaten anwerben'), while bewerkstelligen (to accomplish) is a distant relative but distinct. When you want to emphasize the 'winning over' aspect in a professional setting, werben remains the most versatile choice. Always check if you are talking about an object (für) or a person/result (um/direct object). This distinction is what separates an intermediate learner from a beginner. By practicing these different structures, you will find that 'werben' is not just about billboards and TV commercials, but about the art of persuasion in all its forms.
In daily German life, werben and its noun form Werbung are inescapable. You will hear it most frequently in the context of media and business. If you are watching television in Germany, the breaks are called 'Werbepausen.' During these breaks, companies werben for everything from chocolate to insurance. However, the verb itself often appears in more formal settings, such as news reports, business meetings, or political discussions.
On the News
News anchors often use 'werben' when discussing international relations or politics. You might hear: 'Der Kanzler warb in Washington um Unterstützung für sein Vorhaben.' Here, it conveys a sense of high-stakes negotiation and diplomatic effort.

Die Regierung wirbt um Verständnis für die neuen Steuererhöhungen.

In the Workplace
In a corporate environment, you will hear this word during marketing strategy meetings. 'Wie wollen wir für unser neues Tool werben?' (How do we want to promote our new tool?). It is also common in HR contexts when discussing how to attract talent.

Wir werben auf Jobmessen um neue Auszubildende.

At the University
Universities often 'werben' for students, especially for specialized Master's programs. You will see brochures and posters designed to 'werben' for the institution's prestige and research opportunities.

Die Universität wirbt weltweit um die besten Köpfe.

In der Stadt werben überall Plakate für das kommende Musikfestival.

Man muss heute anders werben als noch vor zwanzig Jahren.

You might also hear 'werben' in the context of non-profit work. Organizations like Greenpeace or Amnesty International frequently 'werben' for donations or for new supporting members on the street. This is often called 'Haustürwerbung' or 'Straßenwerbung.' If someone approaches you with a clipboard in a German city, they are trying to werben you for their cause. Understanding this word helps you navigate these social interactions and recognize the intent behind various forms of public communication. In summary, 'werben' is the sound of influence and persuasion in the German-speaking world.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with werben involves its conjugation. As a strong verb, it does not follow the regular pattern of adding '-te' for the past tense. Many students incorrectly say 'werbte' instead of the correct warb. Similarly, the past participle is geworben, not 'gewerbt.'
Mistake: Wrong Preposition
Learners often confuse 'für' and 'um.' Use für when talking about an object or a product ('Ich werbe für das Produkt'). Use um when talking about a person's favor or an abstract goal ('Er wirbt um ihre Liebe'). Using 'für' when you mean 'um' can sound very strange, as if you are advertising a person like a commodity.

Falsch: Er werbt für das Auto. (Korrekt: Er wirbt für das Auto.)

Mistake: Confusing with 'bewerkstelligen'
Because 'werben' sounds slightly like 'work' in English or 'bewerkstelligen' in German, some beginners use it to mean 'to work' or 'to manage.' This is incorrect. 'Werben' is strictly about promotion and recruitment.

Falsch: Ich werbe hart an diesem Projekt. (Korrekt: Ich arbeite hart an diesem Projekt.)

Mistake: Omitting the Object
'Werben' almost always requires an object or a prepositional phrase. You cannot just say 'Ich werbe' without context. You must say what you are advertising for or whom you are recruiting.

Falsch: Die Firma wirbt viel. (Besser: Die Firma macht viel Werbung oder Die Firma wirbt viel für ihre Produkte.)

Falsch: Wir haben neue Kunden gewerbt. (Korrekt: Wir haben neue Kunden geworben.)

Falsch: Er warbte um sie. (Korrekt: Er warb um sie.)

Another nuance is the difference between werben and anwerben. While 'werben' is broad, 'anwerben' is specific to the act of hiring or enlisting. If you say 'Ich werbe Mitarbeiter,' it's okay, but 'Ich werbe Mitarbeiter an' sounds more like a formal recruitment process. Finally, avoid using 'werben' when you simply mean 'to say' or 'to tell.' It is a verb of action and persuasion. If there is no intent to convince, 'werben' is likely the wrong choice. By keeping these common pitfalls in mind, you will use 'werben' with the precision of a native speaker.
German offers several alternatives to werben, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms will help you avoid repetition and sound more natural.
Reklame machen
This is a very common, slightly more colloquial way to say 'to advertise.' While 'werben' is used in professional marketing, 'Reklame machen' is what you might say to a friend about a good movie or a restaurant.

Du solltest mehr Reklame für deinen Blog machen.

Anpreisen
This verb means 'to praise' or 'to hawk' something. It has a slightly more aggressive or enthusiastic connotation, like a salesperson at a market shouting about their wares.

Der Verkäufer pries seine Ware lautstark an.

Promoten
In modern business German, the Denglish (German-English) word 'promoten' is very common, especially in the music and film industries. It is used exactly like 'to promote' in English.

Die Band ist auf Tour, um ihr neues Album zu promoten.

Propagieren
This is a more academic or political term, meaning 'to propagate' or 'to advocate for' an idea or ideology. It carries a much heavier weight than 'werben.'

Die Organisation propagiert einen nachhaltigen Lebensstil.

Anstatt zu werben, sollten wir einfach gute Arbeit leisten.

Das Recruiting-Team versucht, Talente direkt an der Uni zu werben.

When choosing an alternative, consider your audience. In a professional presentation, stick with werben or Marketing betreiben. In a casual chat about a cool new app, Reklame machen or empfehlen (to recommend) are better fits. If you are talking about the historical sense of courting, den Hof machen is a classic (if slightly old-fashioned) alternative to 'um jemanden werben.' By mastering these synonyms, you can tailor your German to any social or professional situation.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The original meaning of 'turning' is still visible in the word 'Wirbel' (vortex/vertebra). Advertising is literally 'turning' people's attention.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈvɛːbn̩/
US /ˈvɛrbən/
The stress is on the first syllable: WER-ben.
韻が合う語
sterben verderben erben gerben färben kerben scherben werben (reflexive)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing 'w' like an English 'w' instead of 'v'.
  • Forgetting the stem change in 'wirbt'.
  • Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly like an American 'r'.
  • Confusing the vowel sound with 'wirben'.
  • Incorrectly stressing the second syllable.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize in context, especially with 'für'.

ライティング 4/5

Strong verb conjugation and preposition choice make it harder to write correctly.

スピーキング 3/5

The 'w' and 'er' sounds require practice for English speakers.

リスニング 2/5

Common in media, so you will hear it often.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

arbeiten kaufen helfen sehen machen

次に学ぶ

anwerben abwerben überzeugen verkaufen die Werbung

上級

die Akquise die Öffentlichkeitsarbeit die Marktforschung die Zielgruppe die Kundenbindung

知っておくべき文法

Strong Verb Conjugation

werben (e) -> wirbt (i) in the present tense.

Prepositional Objects

werben requires 'für' or 'um' depending on the goal.

Passive Voice with Intransitive Verbs

Es wird für das Projekt geworben.

Word Order in Subordinate Clauses

...weil er für die Firma wirbt.

Participle II Formation

ge- + -worb- + -en (geworben).

レベル別の例文

1

Die Firma wirbt für Cola.

The company advertises for Cola.

Simple present tense with 'für'.

2

Wir werben im Internet.

We advertise on the internet.

Use of 'im' for location.

3

Werben sie für Autos?

Are they advertising for cars?

Question form.

4

Ich werbe für mein Hobby.

I promote my hobby.

First person singular.

5

Plakate werben für das Fest.

Posters advertise for the festival.

Plural subject.

6

Warum werben sie hier?

Why are they advertising here?

Interrogative sentence.

7

Das Radio wirbt für Musik.

The radio promotes music.

Third person singular.

8

Wir werben heute nicht.

We are not advertising today.

Negation with 'nicht'.

1

Er wirbt für seine neue App.

He is advertising for his new app.

Stem change e -> i (wirbt).

2

Wir werben neue Mitglieder für den Club.

We are recruiting new members for the club.

Direct object 'Mitglieder'.

3

Sie werben oft im Fernsehen.

They often advertise on television.

Adverb 'oft'.

4

Wirbt die Bäckerei für Brot?

Does the bakery advertise for bread?

Verb-first question.

5

Die Schule wirbt für den Tag der offenen Tür.

The school promotes the open house day.

Compound noun 'Tag der offenen Tür'.

6

Ich werbe für gesunde Ernährung.

I promote healthy eating.

Accusative after 'für'.

7

Wirbt du für deine Firma?

Do you advertise for your company?

Stem change e -> i (wirbst).

8

Sie werben mit bunten Bildern.

They advertise with colorful pictures.

Preposition 'mit'.

1

Die Partei warb um das Vertrauen der Wähler.

The party campaigned for the voters' trust.

Simple past 'warb' with 'um'.

2

Wir haben erfolgreich für das Projekt geworben.

We have successfully promoted the project.

Perfect tense 'hat geworben'.

3

Es ist wichtig, um neue Kunden zu werben.

It is important to court new customers.

Infinitive with 'zu'.

4

Sie warben mit niedrigen Preisen.

They advertised with low prices.

Simple past plural.

5

Der Verein wirbt um Spenden für Kinder.

The association is seeking donations for children.

Preposition 'um' for abstract goals.

6

Warum hast du nicht für den Film geworben?

Why didn't you promote the movie?

Perfect tense question.

7

Die Stadt wirbt um Touristen aus aller Welt.

The city is courting tourists from all over the world.

Third person singular with 'um'.

8

Wir werben für eine bessere Umwelt.

We are campaigning for a better environment.

Abstract noun after 'für'.

1

Die Regierung wirbt um Verständnis für die Reform.

The government is seeking understanding for the reform.

Using 'werben um' for abstract concepts.

2

Viele Firmen werben aggressiv auf Social Media.

Many companies advertise aggressively on social media.

Adverb 'aggressiv'.

3

Er warb leidenschaftlich um ihre Hand.

He passionately sought her hand in marriage.

Archaic/Romantic usage.

4

Es wurde viel für das neue Gesetz geworben.

A lot of promotion was done for the new law.

Passive voice.

5

Wir müssen um qualifizierte Mitarbeiter werben.

We must recruit qualified employees.

Modal verb 'müssen'.

6

Die Agentur wirbt mit innovativen Konzepten.

The agency advertises with innovative concepts.

Dative after 'mit'.

7

Obwohl sie viel werben, steigen die Verkäufe nicht.

Although they advertise a lot, sales are not increasing.

Subordinate clause with 'obwohl'.

8

Sie warben um Unterstützung in der Bevölkerung.

They sought support among the population.

Preposition 'in'.

1

Der Kanzler warb in seiner Rede um internationales Vertrauen.

The Chancellor sought international trust in his speech.

Formal journalistic style.

2

Man sollte nicht zu offensichtlich für sich selbst werben.

One should not promote oneself too obviously.

Reflexive 'für sich selbst'.

3

Die Kampagne wirbt für eine inklusive Gesellschaft.

The campaign promotes an inclusive society.

Sophisticated vocabulary.

4

Sie warben unermüdlich um Investoren für ihr Start-up.

They tirelessly sought investors for their start-up.

Adverb 'unermüdlich'.

5

Es gilt, um die Gunst der Kritiker zu werben.

It is necessary to court the favor of the critics.

Phrase 'Es gilt, zu...'.

6

Die Firma wirbt damit, besonders nachhaltig zu sein.

The company advertises that it is particularly sustainable.

Construction 'werben damit, zu...'.

7

Hätten wir mehr geworben, wäre der Erfolg größer gewesen.

Had we advertised more, the success would have been greater.

Subjunctive II (Irrealis).

8

Die Plakate werben für eine radikale politische Wende.

The posters advocate for a radical political turnaround.

Political context.

1

In seinem Werk wirbt der Autor um Empathie für die Ausgestoßenen.

In his work, the author seeks empathy for the outcasts.

Literary analysis.

2

Das Unternehmen wirbt subtil um eine zahlungskräftige Klientel.

The company subtly courts a wealthy clientele.

Nuanced adverbs.

3

Es ist eine Kunst, um die Aufmerksamkeit des Publikums zu werben.

It is an art to court the audience's attention.

Abstract metaphor.

4

Die Diplomatie warb hinter verschlossenen Türen um einen Kompromiss.

Diplomacy sought a compromise behind closed doors.

Idiomatic expression.

5

Er warb mit einer Eloquenz, die ihresgleichen suchte.

He campaigned with an eloquence that was second to none.

High-level relative clause.

6

Die Werbung wirbt oft für Bedürfnisse, die wir gar nicht haben.

Advertising often promotes needs that we don't even have.

Philosophical observation.

7

In der Renaissance warben Fürsten um die besten Künstler ihrer Zeit.

During the Renaissance, princes sought the best artists of their time.

Historical context.

8

Das Marketing wirbt für ein Idealbild, das kaum zu erreichen ist.

Marketing promotes an ideal image that is hard to achieve.

Critical analysis.

よく使う組み合わせ

für ein Produkt werben
um Mitglieder werben
um Stimmen werben
um Vertrauen werben
aggressiv werben
online werben
um jemandes Gunst werben
Fachkräfte werben
Kunden werben
für eine Sache werben

よく使うフレーズ

Kunden werben Kunden

— A referral program where existing customers recruit new ones.

Unser 'Kunden werben Kunden'-Programm ist sehr erfolgreich.

um Verständnis werben

— To ask for or try to gain understanding for a situation.

Die Bahn wirbt um Verständnis für die Verspätungen.

für sich werben

— To promote oneself or one's own skills.

Im Vorstellungsgespräch musst du für dich werben.

breit angelegt werben

— To advertise on a large scale across many channels.

Die Kampagne wird breit angelegt werben.

um Unterstützung werben

— To seek help or support for a project or idea.

Wir werben um Unterstützung für unser Start-up.

offensiv werben

— To advertise in a bold or forward manner.

Die Billigairline wirbt sehr offensiv.

weltweit werben

— To advertise or recruit on a global scale.

Große Konzerne werben weltweit um Talente.

um Nachfolger werben

— To look for someone to take over a position or business.

Der Bäcker wirbt um einen Nachfolger für seinen Laden.

für den Frieden werben

— To advocate for peace.

Die Aktivisten werben für den Frieden in der Region.

um Kooperation werben

— To seek collaboration with another party.

Die Firma wirbt bei der Konkurrenz um Kooperation.

よく混同される語

werben vs erwerben

Means 'to acquire' or 'to purchase', not 'to advertise'.

werben vs bewerkstelligen

Means 'to accomplish' or 'to bring about'.

werben vs würfeln

Means 'to roll dice'; sounds slightly similar but unrelated.

慣用句と表現

"um jemanden werben"

— To court someone romantically.

Er wirbt schon lange um sie.

slightly formal/romantic
"die Werbetrommel rühren"

— To promote something vigorously (literally: to beat the advertising drum).

Wir müssen die Werbetrommel für unser Konzert rühren.

idiomatic
"für etwas die Werbetrommel rühren"

— To make a lot of noise about a project or product.

Sie rührt die Werbetrommel für ihre neue Geschäftsidee.

idiomatic
"um jemandes Hand werben"

— To ask for someone's hand in marriage.

Er warb förmlich um ihre Hand.

formal/old-fashioned
"Klappern gehört zum Handwerk"

— Advertising is part of the job (literally: rattling belongs to the craft).

Man muss über seine Erfolge reden; Klappern gehört zum Handwerk.

proverbial
"für eine gute Sache werben"

— To promote a charitable or noble cause.

Sie werben für eine gute Sache.

neutral
"um Vertrauen werben"

— To try to win back lost trust.

Nach dem Skandal muss die Firma um Vertrauen werben.

formal
"in eigener Sache werben"

— To promote one's own interests.

Er nutzte die Rede, um in eigener Sache zu werben.

neutral
"um Stimmenfang gehen"

— To go out looking for votes (often used critically).

Die Politiker gehen wieder auf Stimmenfang.

colloquial/critical
"auf Kundenfang sein"

— To be out looking for customers (often used critically).

Die Vertreter sind in der Fußgängerzone auf Kundenfang.

colloquial/critical

間違えやすい

werben vs erwerben

Similar prefix and root.

Werben is to promote; erwerben is to get or buy something.

Ich erwerbe ein Haus (I buy a house) vs. Ich werbe für ein Haus (I advertise a house).

werben vs anwerben

It is a compound of werben.

Werben is general; anwerben is specifically for recruiting personnel.

Wir werben Soldaten an.

werben vs abwerben

It is a compound of werben.

Abwerben means to entice someone away from a competitor.

Die Firma hat meinen besten Programmierer abgeworben.

werben vs überzeugen

Similar goal.

Werben is the act of promotion; überzeugen is the result of making someone believe.

Ich werbe für die Idee, um dich zu überzeugen.

werben vs empfehlen

Similar action.

Empfehlen is a personal recommendation; werben is professional promotion.

Ich empfehle das Buch.

文型パターン

A1

Subjekt + werben + für + Objekt.

Ich werbe für Brot.

A2

Subjekt + wirbt + für + Objekt.

Er wirbt für seine App.

B1

Subjekt + hat + für + Objekt + geworben.

Wir haben für das Fest geworben.

B1

Subjekt + warb + um + Objekt.

Sie warb um Hilfe.

B2

Es + wird + für + Objekt + geworben.

Es wird für den Film geworben.

C1

Subjekt + wirbt + damit, + zu + Infinitiv.

Die Firma wirbt damit, billig zu sein.

C2

Subjekt + warb + mit + Adjektiv + Substantiv.

Er warb mit beispielloser Leidenschaft.

C2

In + Ort + wird + um + Objekt + geworben.

In der Politik wird um Macht geworben.

語族

名詞

die Werbung
der Werber
das Werbemittel
die Werbeagentur
der Werbefilm
die Werbebotschaft

動詞

anwerben
abwerben
bewerkstelligen (distantly related)
erwerben (distantly related)
umwerben

形容詞

werbewirksam
werbend
geworben
werbefrei

関連

der Wettbewerb
die Wirtschaft
das Werk
die Wirkung
der Wert

使い方

frequency

Very common in business, media, and politics.

よくある間違い
  • Er werbt für das Produkt. Er wirbt für das Produkt.

    The stem vowel 'e' changes to 'i' in the third person singular present tense.

  • Wir haben für das Auto gewerbt. Wir haben für das Auto geworben.

    The past participle of the strong verb 'werben' is 'geworben,' not 'gewerbt.'

  • Ich werbe um die neue App. Ich werbe für die neue App.

    Use 'für' for products and 'um' for abstract goals or people.

  • Er warbte um ihre Unterstützung. Er warb um ihre Unterstützung.

    The simple past of 'werben' is 'warb,' not 'warbte.'

  • Ich werbe hart bei der Arbeit. Ich arbeite hart.

    'Werben' means to advertise, not 'to work.' This is a false friend confusion.

ヒント

Stem Change Alert

Don't forget the 'e' to 'i' change! 'Er wirbt' is one of the most frequently tested forms of this verb.

Choose the right preposition

Always pause and think: Am I selling something (für) or seeking something (um)? This is the key to natural-sounding German.

Noun vs. Verb

Remember that 'Werbung' is the thing you see, and 'werben' is what the company does. Don't mix them up in your sentences.

Business Context

In a job interview, use 'für sich werben' to show that you know how to present your strengths effectively.

Listen for 'warb'

In news broadcasts, the simple past 'warb' is very common. If you hear it, they are likely talking about a politician seeking support.

Compound Power

Learn 'anwerben' and 'abwerben' together. They are essential for any business-related writing or conversation.

Soft Sell

German 'Werbung' is often more factual than American ads. When you 'werben' in Germany, focus on the benefits and facts.

The 'W' rule

W-erben = W-inning customers. This simple link will help you remember the meaning instantly.

The 'v' sound

Make sure your 'w' sounds like a 'v'. If you say it like an English 'w', Germans might not understand you immediately.

Passive Usage

Try using 'Es wurde geworben' in your essays to sound more academic and professional.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'Verbalizing' your product's benefits. To 'werben' is to speak up and 'turn' people toward your brand.

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant billboard 'turning' (werban) toward a crowd of people.

Word Web

Marketing Plakat Fernsehen Kunden Mitglieder Überzeugen Kampagne Erfolg

チャレンジ

Try to write three sentences: one for a product (für), one for a person (um), and one in the past tense (warb).

語源

From Middle High German 'werben' and Old High German 'werban'.

元の意味: To turn, to move, to strive, or to be active.

Germanic (related to Old English 'hwearf' and English 'warp').

文化的な背景

Be careful when using 'werben um' with people; it can sound very formal or old-fashioned unless in a specific romantic or political context.

In English, we distinguish between 'advertising' and 'recruiting.' German often uses 'werben' for both, which can be confusing for learners.

Goethe's 'Die Leiden des jungen Werthers' features the protagonist courting (werben) Lotte. The slogan 'Wir werben für Deutschland' is sometimes used in national promotion. Modern 'Kunden werben Kunden' programs are everywhere in German banking.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Marketing

  • für ein Produkt werben
  • eine Kampagne planen
  • Werbung schalten
  • die Zielgruppe erreichen

Politics

  • um Wählerstimmen werben
  • für ein Gesetz werben
  • um Unterstützung bitten
  • Wahlkampf machen

Employment

  • neue Mitarbeiter werben
  • um Fachkräfte werben
  • Lehrlinge anwerben
  • Stellenanzeigen aufgeben

Romance

  • um jemandes Hand werben
  • jemandem den Hof machen
  • um Liebe werben
  • jemanden erobern

Associations

  • Mitglieder werben
  • um Spenden werben
  • für den Verein werben
  • Ehrenamtliche suchen

会話のきっかけ

"Wie würdest du für deine Stadt werben?"

"Welche Firma wirbt deiner Meinung nach am besten?"

"Hast du schon mal neue Mitglieder für einen Club geworben?"

"Warum werben Politiker oft erst kurz vor der Wahl?"

"Findest du es gut, wenn Influencer für Produkte werben?"

日記のテーマ

Beschreibe eine Werbung, die dich zum Kauf eines Produkts überzeugt hat. Wie hat die Firma geworben?

Wenn du ein eigenes Unternehmen hättest, wie würdest du dafür werben?

Warum ist es heutzutage schwieriger, um das Vertrauen der Menschen zu werben?

Sollte man an Schulen für politische Ideen werben dürfen?

Reflektiere über eine Situation, in der du um die Unterstützung von jemandem werben musstest.

よくある質問

10 問

No, it is a strong verb. It changes from 'werben' to 'wirbt' in the present and 'warb' in the past. Always memorize its principal parts: werben, wirbt, warb, hat geworben.

Use 'für' for physical objects or services (like cars or apps). Use 'um' for abstract things you want to gain (like trust, votes, or someone's love).

Yes, you can say 'Mitglieder werben.' For professional hiring, 'anwerben' is also very common. If you take an employee from another company, use 'abwerben'.

No. This is a common mistake for English speakers. 'To work' is 'arbeiten.' 'Werben' is specifically about advertising or recruitment.

The noun is 'die Werbung.' You can also use 'die Anzeige' for a specific ad in a newspaper or 'der Werbespot' for a TV commercial.

Yes, 'um jemanden werben' means to court or woo someone. It sounds a bit formal or classic, like something from a novel.

It is a famous proverb related to advertising. It means that if you want to be successful in your business, you have to talk about it and promote it.

Yes, when you are recruiting. For example, 'Wir werben neue Kunden' (We are recruiting new customers). In this case, there is no preposition.

It refers to door-to-door advertising or sales. It is often used for charities or utility companies looking for new contracts.

It is very common in modern business, music, and social media contexts. However, 'werben' remains the standard, correct German verb for formal writing.

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'werben für'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'werben um'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'werben' im Perfekt.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'werben' im Präteritum.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über einen Politiker, der Stimmen sucht.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Erkläre kurz (auf Deutsch), was 'werben' bedeutet.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe eine Frage mit 'werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'anwerben' in einem Satz.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Mitglieder werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze das Wort 'Werbung' und das Verb 'werben' in einem Satz.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Was würdest du tun, um für dein Hobby zu werben?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz im Passiv mit 'werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'um jemandes Hand werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'online werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'aggressiv werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'für eine gute Sache werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Was bedeutet 'abwerben' in einem beruflichen Kontext?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz im Konjunktiv II mit 'werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Benutze 'um Unterstützung werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'für sich selbst werben'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich den Satz laut aus: 'Die Firma wirbt für ein neues Auto.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Konjugiere 'werben' im Präsens (ich bis sie).

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Beantworte die Frage: 'Wofür wirbst du?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich den Satz aus: 'Er warb um ihre Hand.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen 'werben für' und 'werben um'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sage im Perfekt: 'Wir haben für das Projekt geworben.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Beantworte: 'Warum werben Firmen im Internet?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich das Wort 'Werbewirksamkeit' aus.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sage: 'Die Politiker werben um Stimmen.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Erzähle kurz, wie man neue Mitglieder für einen Club wirbt.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich: 'Klappern gehört zum Handwerk.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sage: 'Wir werben online.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Beantworte: 'Was ist dein Lieblings-Werbespot?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich: 'Er wirbt um ihr Vertrauen.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sage: 'Wir haben neue Kunden geworben.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Erkläre 'abwerben'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich: 'Es wurde viel geworben.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sage: 'Die Agentur wirbt mit Plakaten.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Beantworte: 'Sollte Werbung für Kinder verboten sein?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Sprich: 'Wir werben für eine bessere Welt.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Die Firma wirbt für Schokolade.' Was wird beworben?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Er wirbt um ihre Gunst.' Um was wirbt er?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Wir haben gestern geworben.' Wann wurde geworben?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Warum wirbst du so viel?' Was ist die Frage?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Die Partei warb um Stimmen.' Wer warb?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Wir werben online.' Wo werben sie?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Es wird für Sport geworben.' Für was wird geworben?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Er hat mich abgeworben.' Was ist passiert?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Werben Sie für uns!' Was ist das?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Die Agentur warb mit Erfolg.' War die Werbung gut?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Ich werbe für mein Hobby.' Was macht die Person?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Um Kunden zu werben, braucht man Geld.' Was braucht man?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Sie wirbt leidenschaftlich.' Wie wirbt sie?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Wir werben für den Frieden.' Was ist das Ziel?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Hör zu: 'Er wirbt um ihre Hand.' Was plant er?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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