B1 Collocation Formal 4 min read

Voraussetzungen erfüllen

To meet prerequisites

Literally: {"Voraussetzungen":"prerequisites","erf\u00fcllen":"to fulfill"}

In 15 Seconds

  • Meet all necessary conditions.
  • Ticking boxes for jobs or studies.
  • Implies readiness and qualification.
  • Generally neutral to formal tone.

Meaning

This German phrase is all about ticking all the right boxes. It means you've successfully met all the necessary conditions or requirements for something. Think of it as getting your checklist approved, clearing the hurdles, or being officially qualified for the next step. It carries a sense of accomplishment and readiness.

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

Job application follow-up email

Ich schreibe Ihnen, um zu bestätigen, dass ich die Voraussetzungen für die Stelle erfülle.

I am writing to confirm that I meet the prerequisites for the position.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
2

University admission advisor speaking

Herzlichen Glückwunsch, Sie erfüllen alle Voraussetzungen für unser Masterprogramm!

Congratulations, you meet all the prerequisites for our Master's program!

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
3

Texting a friend about a new streaming show

Ich glaube, ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen, um diese neue Netflix-Serie zu schauen. Habe alle Staffeln der Vorgängerserie gesehen!

I think I meet the prerequisites to watch this new Netflix series. I've seen all seasons of the previous one!

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

In Germany, 'Voraussetzungen' are often strictly interpreted. If a job ad says you need a B2 certificate, having 'B2 level' without the paper might not be enough to 'fulfill the requirements.' Austrians might use the word 'Erfordernisse' in very formal legal contexts, but 'Voraussetzungen erfüllen' is still the standard in daily business. Swiss German speakers use this phrase in 'Schriftdeutsch' (written German), but in dialect, they might say 'Es mues passe' (It must fit). In international startups in Berlin, the phrase is often 'Denglish-ified': 'Hast du die Requirements gefilled?' but 'Voraussetzungen erfüllen' remains the professional standard.

🎯

Use it in your CV

Instead of saying 'I can do X', say 'Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen für X'. It sounds much more professional.

⚠️

Plural is safer

Always use the plural 'Voraussetzungen' unless you are specifically talking about one single rule.

In 15 Seconds

  • Meet all necessary conditions.
  • Ticking boxes for jobs or studies.
  • Implies readiness and qualification.
  • Generally neutral to formal tone.

What It Means

This phrase is your green light! It means you've done everything needed. You've met all the conditions. You're officially qualified for something. It’s like getting a golden ticket. You’ve passed the test. You’re ready for what's next.

How To Use It

Use Voraussetzungen erfüllen when you confirm you meet requirements. It's often used in official contexts. Think job applications or university admissions. You can also use it for less formal things. Like getting permission from your parents. Or qualifying for a special discount. It’s a versatile phrase for meeting criteria.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine applying for a visa. You gather all your documents. You submit them to the embassy. The officer checks everything. They confirm you erfüllen die Voraussetzungen. You’re approved! Or maybe you want a gaming achievement. It requires specific in-game actions. Once you complete them, you’ve die Voraussetzungen erfüllt. Boom! Achievement unlocked.

When To Use It

Use this phrase when conditions are set. Someone or something has requirements. You need to confirm you meet them. It's perfect for formal processes. Like job interviews or loan applications. It’s also great for personal goals. Did you finish all your homework? Then you erfüllen die Voraussetzungen for a fun weekend. It’s about being prepared and qualified.

When NOT To Use It

Don't use Voraussetzungen erfüllen for very casual chats. If you're just meeting a friend for coffee, you don't need to "meet prerequisites." It sounds way too formal. Avoid it for simple actions. Like "I met the prerequisites for ordering pizza." Just say "I ordered pizza." It’s overkill. It’s not for everyday, spontaneous decisions. It implies a formal checklist was involved.

Common Mistakes

I erfüllen die Vorbedingung for the job. I erfüllen die Voraussetzungen for the job.
You erfüllen die Bedingungen to join. You erfüllen die Voraussetzungen to join.
We erfüllen die Anforderungen for the grant. We erfüllen die Voraussetzungen for the grant.

Using Bedingungen or Anforderungen is okay, but Voraussetzungen is the most common and natural fit here. It's like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole – it *might* work, but it's not the best fit!

Similar Expressions

  • Bedingungen erfüllen: Similar, but often more about fulfilling specific terms or conditions of a contract or agreement.
  • Anforderungen erfüllen: Focuses more on meeting specific demands or requirements, often in a professional or technical context.
  • berechtigt sein: Means to be entitled or eligible, focusing on the right to something rather than the process of meeting criteria.
  • qualifiziert sein: Means to be qualified, highlighting your skills or status rather than the checklist of requirements.

These are close cousins, but Voraussetzungen erfüllen is the go-to for the overall set of prerequisites.

Common Variations

  • die Voraussetzungen erfüllen: The most standard form, using the definite article.
  • Voraussetzungen erfüllen: Without the article, often used in more general statements or lists.
  • alle Voraussetzungen erfüllen: Emphasizes that *all* conditions are met.
  • die notwendigen Voraussetzungen erfüllen: Adds emphasis on the necessity of the requirements.

These variations just add a little spice or emphasis. Like adding sprinkles to your ice cream!

Memory Trick

💡

Imagine a Very Rare Elephant Feeling Excited! The Very Rare Elephant is trying to get into a special club. He needs to erfüllen (fulfill) the Voraussetzungen (prerequisites). The elephant's excitement shows the positive feeling of meeting requirements. So, the Very Rare Elephant Feeling Excited helps you remember Voraussetzungen erfüllen!

Quick FAQ

  • What does Voraussetzungen erfüllen mean?

It means you've successfully met all the necessary conditions or requirements for something, like getting a job or entering a program. It's about ticking all the boxes on a checklist.

  • Is it formal?

It leans towards formal or neutral. You'd use it in job applications or university contexts. It's not typically used in super casual chat with close friends.

  • Can I use Bedingungen instead?

You can, but Voraussetzungen is more common for a set of initial requirements. Bedingungen often refers to specific terms or clauses within an agreement.

Usage Notes

This phrase carries a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for official applications, academic contexts, and professional communication. Avoid using it in very casual conversations, as it might sound overly bureaucratic or stiff. The key is that it refers to a set of conditions that must be met *before* one can proceed to the next stage.

🎯

Use it in your CV

Instead of saying 'I can do X', say 'Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen für X'. It sounds much more professional.

⚠️

Plural is safer

Always use the plural 'Voraussetzungen' unless you are specifically talking about one single rule.

💬

The 'Nachweis' culture

In Germany, fulfilling requirements usually means having a piece of paper to prove it. Always be ready to show your 'Nachweise'.

Examples

10
#1 Job application follow-up email
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Ich schreibe Ihnen, um zu bestätigen, dass ich die Voraussetzungen für die Stelle erfülle.

I am writing to confirm that I meet the prerequisites for the position.

This shows you've checked all the boxes mentioned in the job description.

#2 University admission advisor speaking
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Herzlichen Glückwunsch, Sie erfüllen alle Voraussetzungen für unser Masterprogramm!

Congratulations, you meet all the prerequisites for our Master's program!

Confirms the student has successfully passed all entry requirements.

#3 Texting a friend about a new streaming show
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Ich glaube, ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen, um diese neue Netflix-Serie zu schauen. Habe alle Staffeln der Vorgängerserie gesehen!

I think I meet the prerequisites to watch this new Netflix series. I've seen all seasons of the previous one!

A slightly humorous, informal use, treating show-watching like a qualification.

#4 Instagram caption for a new qualification

Endlich die Prüfungen bestanden! Ich erfülle nun die Voraussetzungen für den C1-Sprachkurs. Auf geht's! 🚀

Finally passed the exams! I now meet the prerequisites for the C1 language course. Let's go! 🚀

Celebrates meeting the requirements needed to start something new.

#5 Discussing a loan application
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Um den Kredit zu bekommen, müssen Sie nachweisen, dass Sie die finanziellen Voraussetzungen erfüllen.

To get the loan, you must prove that you meet the financial prerequisites.

Highlights the specific financial criteria needed for approval.

Mistake: Applying for a job Common Mistake

✗ Ich glaube, ich erfülle die Bedingungen für die Stelle.

✗ I think I meet the conditions for the position.

`Bedingungen` is okay, but `Voraussetzungen` is the standard term for job requirements.

Mistake: Joining a club Common Mistake

✗ Du hast die Anforderungen erfüllt, um beizutreten.

✗ You have met the requirements to join.

`Anforderungen` is too specific; `Voraussetzungen` covers the general entry criteria better.

#8 Humorous comment on a cooking video
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen für dieses Rezept: Ich habe einen Herd und Hunger!

I meet the prerequisites for this recipe: I have a stove and hunger!

A funny take on meeting the absolute minimum requirements.

#9 Emotional moment after achieving a goal
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

Nach all der harten Arbeit habe ich endlich die Voraussetzungen erfüllt, um mein eigenes kleines Café zu eröffnen.

After all the hard work, I have finally met the prerequisites to open my own little café.

Expresses deep satisfaction and the culmination of effort.

#10 Discussing game requirements
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Um das neue Update herunterzuladen, musst du die technischen Voraussetzungen erfüllen.

To download the new update, you must meet the technical prerequisites.

Refers to the specific hardware or software needs for a game or app.

Test Yourself

Fill in the correct form of 'erfüllen'.

Ich hoffe, dass ich alle Voraussetzungen für das Stipendium ______.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: erfülle

The subject is 'ich', so the verb ending must be '-e'.

Which sentence is correct?

A: Ich mache die Voraussetzungen. B: Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen. C: Ich habe die Voraussetzungen gemacht. D: Ich bin die Voraussetzungen.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

'Erfüllen' is the correct verb to use with 'Voraussetzungen'.

Match the noun with the correct context.

1. Fachliche Voraussetzungen, 2. Technische Voraussetzungen, 3. Gesetzliche Voraussetzungen

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1-B, 2-A, 3-C

Fachlich relates to skills, technisch to machines, and gesetzlich to law.

Complete the dialogue.

Chef: 'Haben Sie das Zertifikat?' Bewerber: 'Ja, damit ______ ich die letzte Voraussetzung.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: erfülle

The applicant is confirming they now meet the final requirement.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Types of Voraussetzungen

💼

Professional

  • Berufserfahrung
  • Studium
  • Sprachkenntnisse
⚙️

Technical

  • Speicherplatz
  • Betriebssystem
  • Internet
⚖️

Legal

  • Mindestalter
  • Visum
  • Führerschein

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Fill in the correct form of 'erfüllen'. Fill Blank B1

Ich hoffe, dass ich alle Voraussetzungen für das Stipendium ______.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: erfülle

The subject is 'ich', so the verb ending must be '-e'.

Which sentence is correct? Choose A2

A: Ich mache die Voraussetzungen. B: Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen. C: Ich habe die Voraussetzungen gemacht. D: Ich bin die Voraussetzungen.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

'Erfüllen' is the correct verb to use with 'Voraussetzungen'.

Match the noun with the correct context. Match B1

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1-B, 2-A, 3-C

Fachlich relates to skills, technisch to machines, and gesetzlich to law.

Complete the dialogue. dialogue_completion B1

Chef: 'Haben Sie das Zertifikat?' Bewerber: 'Ja, damit ______ ich die letzte Voraussetzung.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: erfülle

The applicant is confirming they now meet the final requirement.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. While English uses 'meet', German does not use 'treffen' for requirements. Use 'erfüllen' or 'entsprechen'.

It is 'Voraussetzung' with one 'r'. A common spelling mistake even for natives!

No, it's used for university, visas, technical specs, and even legal conditions.

You say: 'Ich erfülle die Voraussetzungen nicht.'

'Voraussetzung' is something needed *beforehand*. 'Bedingung' is a general condition that might apply at any time.

It's possible but sounds a bit strange. 'Erfüllen' is much more natural.

Yes, it is formal to neutral. In very casual speech, people use simpler words.

It takes the Accusative case (Wen oder was?).

Yes, you can say 'Er erfüllt die Voraussetzungen', meaning he is the right person for the task.

Not really, but you can say 'Die Kriterien passen' in informal settings.

Related Phrases

🔗

Bedingungen akzeptieren

similar

To accept terms and conditions.

🔗

Anforderungen übertreffen

builds on

To exceed requirements.

🔗

Kriterien festlegen

contrast

To set the criteria.

🔗

Qualifikationen nachweisen

specialized form

To prove qualifications with documents.

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