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ausbilden

A2 verb #4,000 most common 11 min read

ausbilden

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips ausbilden in 30 Seconds

Explanation ausbilden in your Level:

At the A1 level, you primarily encounter 'ausbilden' in its noun form 'Ausbildung' (training/apprenticeship). You might learn to say 'Ich mache eine Ausbildung' (I am doing an apprenticeship). As a verb, it is less common at this very early stage, but you might see it in simple job advertisements. The most important thing to know is that it means 'to train' for a job. You don't 'ausbilden' a language; you 'ausbilden' a person. It is a separable verb, which is a concept introduced early in A1. You should recognize that 'bilden' is the root and 'aus' is the prefix. For an A1 student, focus on the connection between the word and a career or a job. Think of it as 'learning a job' from the perspective of the teacher or the system. If you see 'Wir bilden aus' on a shop window, it means 'We take on apprentices.'

At the A2 level, you need to start using 'ausbilden' as a verb in sentences. You should understand the separable nature: 'Die Firma bildet mich aus.' You also learn the preposition 'zu' + dative to describe the profession: 'Er bildet mich zum Koch aus.' At this level, you distinguish between 'lernen' (I learn) and 'ausbilden' (they train me). You also begin to see the word in military contexts if you read basic news or stories. The focus at A2 is on correct word order in the present tense and the perfect tense ('hat ausgebildet'). You should be able to describe your own professional background or your goals using this word. For example, 'Ich möchte mich zum Sanitäter ausgebildet lassen.' It's also important to notice that the object of the verb is always a person or an animal (like a dog) that is being shaped into a specific role.

At the B1 level, you move into more complex structures like the passive voice, which is very common with 'ausbilden.' Since training is often something that happens to you, you will frequently say 'Ich wurde zum Mechaniker ausgebildet' (I was trained as a mechanic). You also learn about the German 'Duales System' in more detail, where 'ausbilden' is the central verb. You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of different training paths. In the military context, you might discuss 'Grundausbildung' (basic training) and how soldiers are prepared for missions. You will also encounter related words like 'Ausbilder' (the trainer) and 'Auszubildende' (the apprentice, often shortened to 'Azubi'). At B1, you are expected to use the word accurately in both professional and formal contexts, understanding that it implies a high degree of structure and official recognition.

At the B2 level, you explore the nuances of 'ausbilden' in professional, military, and even technical contexts. You understand that 'ausbilden' can also mean to develop a specific quality or talent: 'Er hat ein großes Talent für Musik ausgebildet.' You start to see the word in more abstract sense, such as 'einen Charakter ausbilden' (to form a character). You are also expected to use the word in the subjunctive (Konjunktiv II) for hypothetical scenarios: 'Wenn die Firma mehr Leute ausbilden würde, hätten wir keinen Fachkräftemangel.' In military and political discussions, you will recognize 'ausbilden' as a key term for international cooperation and defense policy. You should also be aware of the difference between 'ausbilden' and 'fortbilden' (continuing education) and 'weiterbilden' (further training), using each precisely in a business environment.

At the C1 level, you appreciate the historical and philosophical depth of 'ausbilden.' You connect it to the German concept of 'Bildung' (education/cultivation in a broad sense). You can use the verb in sophisticated ways, such as describing how a political system or a culture 'ausbildet' certain behaviors in its citizens. In the military context, you might analyze the 'Innere Führung' of the Bundeswehr and how it 'ausbildet' soldiers to be 'citizens in uniform.' You are comfortable with the nominalized forms and can use the word in complex academic or professional reports. You also understand the reflexive use 'sich ausbilden' in a more metaphorical sense, like a storm forming ('ein Gewitter bildet sich aus'), though this is more formal/scientific. Your usage of prepositions (an, in, zu) is flawless, and you can explain the subtle differences between 'ausbilden' and its synonyms to others.

At the C2 level, you have a complete grasp of 'ausbilden' in all its registers, from the grit of the military barracks to the heights of pedagogical theory. You can use the word to discuss the 'Ausbildung' of the human spirit or the 'Ausbildung' of geological features over millennia. You understand the bureaucratic nuances of the 'Berufsbildungsgesetz' and can debate the merits of the German training system at a high level. You can use the word in literary contexts, recognizing when an author uses it to imply a rigid or transformative process. You are also aware of the archaic uses and can interpret the word in historical military texts from the 18th or 19th century. For you, 'ausbilden' is not just a verb but a reflection of the German emphasis on structure, formation, and the lifelong process of becoming a skilled and educated member of society.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

ausbilden in 30 Seconds

Ausbilden is a separable German verb meaning to train or educate, specifically for a professional or military role.
It involves a structured process where a trainer (Ausbilder) shapes a student (Auszubildende) into a skilled professional.
Grammatically, the prefix 'aus' moves to the end of the sentence, and the preposition 'zu' is used for the job title.
While often used for apprenticeships, it is the standard term for the rigorous preparation of soldiers in the military.

The German verb ausbilden is a multifaceted term that English speakers often translate as 'to train,' 'to educate,' or 'to instruct.' However, its roots go deeper into the concept of 'shaping' or 'forming' (from the German word Bild meaning 'picture' or 'image'). When we use ausbilden, we are talking about a structured, often institutionalized process of giving someone the skills, knowledge, and discipline required for a specific role. While it is widely used in vocational training (the famous German Duale Ausbildung), it holds a very specific and historical weight in the military context, referring to the rigorous preparation of soldiers for service.

Vocational Context: In everyday German life, this word is most frequently encountered when discussing apprenticeships. A company doesn't just 'teach' an apprentice; they 'form' them into a professional. This involves a mix of practical skills and theoretical knowledge that follows a strict curriculum.
Military Context: When applied to the military, ausbilden describes the transformation of a civilian into a soldier. It covers everything from basic fitness and drill to specialized combat tactics and technical expertise. It implies a complete 'building out' of the individual's capabilities to meet the demands of service.
Biological/Physical Context: Less commonly for A2 learners but important for context, the word can also mean to 'develop' or 'evolve' a physical trait, like a plant developing roots or a person developing a specific talent or muscle group over time.

Die Bundeswehr muss jedes Jahr Tausende neue Rekruten gründlich ausbilden, um die Einsatzbereitschaft zu garantieren.

Translation: The Federal Defense Force must thoroughly train thousands of new recruits every year to guarantee operational readiness.

Understanding the prefix 'aus-' is crucial. It suggests a process of bringing something to completion or 'out' from a raw state. Imagine a block of marble being sculpted into a statue; that is the essence of ausbilden. It is not just providing information (which would be informieren) or teaching a single lesson (which would be lehren), but a comprehensive journey of professional or physical development.

Ein guter Offizier muss seine Soldaten nicht nur befehlen, sondern sie auch pädagogisch ausbilden.

Translation: A good officer must not only command his soldiers but also educate/train them pedagogically.

When you use this word in a sentence, remember it is a separable verb. In a main clause, the 'aus' will jump to the very end. For example: 'Ich bilde dich zum Piloten aus.' (I am training you to be a pilot). This structural quirk is often where learners stumble, but mastering it allows you to describe complex professional paths with precision.

Wir bilden unsere Spezialkräfte für schwierige Missionen im Ausland aus.

Formal Usage: You will see this word on every German CV (Lebenslauf). Under 'Berufsausbildung,' people list where they were 'ausgebildet.' It is the standard term for formal qualification.

To use ausbilden correctly, you must master its grammar as a separable verb. In the present tense, the prefix 'aus-' detaches and moves to the end of the clause. This can be challenging for English speakers who are used to keeping the verb parts together. Let's look at the mechanics of building sentences with this word across different contexts, focusing on the military and professional nuances.

The Basic Structure: The subject (the trainer) comes first, followed by the conjugated form of 'bilden,' then the object (the person being trained), and finally the prefix 'aus' at the end.
Example: Der Staat bildet Polizisten aus. (The state trains police officers.)

Die Armee bildet junge Männer und Frauen an modernen Waffensystemen aus.

Note the use of 'an' (at/on) to specify the equipment being used for training.

When you want to specify what someone is being trained to become, you use the preposition zu (plus the dative case). This is one of the most common patterns for this verb. If you are training to be a mechanic, you are being 'zum Mechaniker ausgebildet.'

Er wurde drei Jahre lang zum Sanitäter ausgebildet.

Translation: He was trained as a paramedic for three years. (Passive voice construction).

In the military, ausbilden often appears in the reflexive form or passive form. When a soldier says 'Ich werde ausgebildet,' they are emphasizing the process they are undergoing. If they use it reflexively, 'Ich bilde mich aus,' it implies self-study or specialized training they are pursuing themselves, though this is less common in strict military hierarchies.

Using Modal Verbs: When using modal verbs like 'müssen' (must) or 'wollen' (want), the verb 'ausbilden' stays whole at the end of the sentence.
Example: Wir müssen die neuen Soldaten schneller ausbilden.

Können Sie mich bitte an diesem Funkgerät ausbilden?

Translation: Can you please train me on this radio device?

Finally, consider the noun form: die Ausbildung. While the verb describes the action, the noun describes the entire period or the certificate itself. In German culture, 'eine Ausbildung machen' (to do a training/apprenticeship) is a standard life stage. In the military, the 'Grundausbildung' (basic training) is the rite of passage every soldier must complete.

Der Feldwebel bildet die Gruppe im Gelände aus.

Translation: The sergeant is training the group in the field/terrain.

If you live or work in Germany, ausbilden is unavoidable. It is a word that bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace. However, the specific context of military service gives it a tone of discipline and necessity that you won't find in a casual yoga class. Here is where you will encounter this word in the real world.

The Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces): In military news, recruitment posters, or conversations with soldiers, ausbilden is the standard term. You'll hear about Ausbildungskompagnien (training companies) and Ausbildungszentren (training centers). The focus here is on 'Einsatzbereitschaft' (readiness for action).

'Wir bilden Sie zum Experten für Cybersicherheit aus,' verspricht die Bundeswehr-Webseite.

Translation: 'We will train you to be a cybersecurity expert,' the Bundeswehr website promises.

Beyond the military, the word is the heartbeat of the German economy. The 'Duale Ausbildung' (dual education system) is a point of national pride. You will hear this word in every HR department and at every 'Jobmesse' (job fair). When a company says 'Wir bilden aus,' it is a sign of their commitment to the future workforce and their investment in quality.

In der Berufsschule werden die theoretischen Grundlagen vermittelt, während der Betrieb die Lehrlinge praktisch ausbildet.

Translation: Theoretical basics are taught in vocational school, while the company trains the apprentices practically.

In the news, you might hear ausbilden in the context of international aid or military cooperation. For example, 'Deutschland bildet ukrainische Soldaten an der Panzerhaubitze 2000 aus.' (Germany is training Ukrainian soldiers on the Panzerhaubitze 2000). Here, the word carries diplomatic and geopolitical weight, signifying the transfer of high-tech lethal knowledge.

Everyday Conversations: Even in casual settings, if someone asks what you do for a living, you might say, 'Ich lasse mich gerade zum Koch ausbilden.' (I am currently being trained as a chef). It sounds more formal and 'official' than just saying 'I'm learning to cook.'

Der Hund wird zum Rettungshund ausgebildet.

Translation: The dog is being trained as a rescue dog. (Yes, even animals can be 'ausgebildet' for specific roles!)

In summary, when you hear ausbilden, think: Professional, Structured, and Goal-Oriented. It is the word for turning raw potential into a functional, skilled asset, whether that asset is a soldier, a baker, or even a search-and-rescue dog.

Learning ausbilden can be tricky because English has several words (train, teach, educate) that all seem to map to it. However, German is more precise. Making a mistake here can make you sound like you're talking about raising a child when you mean preparing a soldier, or vice versa. Let's break down the most common pitfalls.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'ausbilden' with 'erziehen': In English, we might say 'He was educated in a good family.' In German, you MUST use erziehen for upbringing/morals. Ausbilden is only for professional or technical skills.
❌ Falsch: Meine Eltern haben mich gut ausgebildet.
✅ Richtig: Meine Eltern haben mich gut erzogen.

Man bildet einen Soldaten aus, aber man erzieht ein Kind.

Another common error is the word order. Because ausbilden is a separable verb, the 'aus' must go to the very end of the main clause. Many students forget this and keep 'ausbilden' together like a standard verb.

Mistake 2: Using 'lernen' when you mean 'ausbilden': Lernen is what the student does. Ausbilden is what the trainer does to the student. If you say 'Ich bilde Deutsch aus,' you are saying you are training the German language (which makes no sense).
✅ Richtig: 'Ich lerne Deutsch' OR 'Ich bilde jemanden in Deutsch aus.'

Der Lehrer bildet die Schüler aus. (The teacher trains the students.)

Finally, watch the prepositions. Students often use 'als' (as) because of English 'trained as a...' In German, you must use zu + dative for the role. 'Ich werde zum Piloten ausgebildet,' not 'als Pilot.'

Mistake 3: Overusing it for simple teaching: If you are just explaining how to use a microwave to a friend, don't use ausbilden. Use zeigen (show) or erklären (explain). Ausbilden implies a long-term, professional commitment. Using it for small things sounds overly dramatic or robotic.

German is rich with verbs that describe the act of passing on knowledge. To sound like a native, you need to know when ausbilden is the right choice and when an alternative fits better. Here is a comparison of similar words.

ausbilden vs. unterrichten: Unterrichten is what happens in a classroom. It is about subjects (Math, History). Ausbilden is about a profession (Soldier, Carpenter). You unterrichtest history, but you ausbildest a historian.
ausbilden vs. trainieren: Trainieren is used for sports or specific physical skills (weightlifting, shooting). Ausbilden is the broader, institutional process. A soldier trainiert his aim, but he is ausgebildet by the army.
ausbilden vs. beibringen: Beibringen is informal. You 'bring something to someone.' Example: 'Mein Opa hat mir das Schwimmen beigebracht.' (My grandpa taught me how to swim). Ausbilden would sound too formal here.

Vergleich:
1. Der Coach trainiert die Mannschaft. (Physical/Sports)
2. Die Schule unterrichtet Mathe. (Academic)
3. Die Firma bildet Mechatroniker aus. (Professional/Vocational)

In a military context, you might also hear schulen. This is usually shorter and more specific than ausbilden. If you have a one-day workshop on a new software, that is a Schulung. If you spend six months learning to be an officer, that is Ausbildung.

Summary of Alternatives

Anlernen: To give basic instructions for a simple task (no full qualification).
Qualifizieren: To make someone eligible for a higher position.
Einarbeiten: To show a new colleague how the office works (onboarding).

Wir müssen das Personal regelmäßig fortbilden.

Note: 'Fortbilden' means further education/training after you are already qualified.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Das Ministerium beabsichtigt, mehr Lehrkräfte im Bereich Informatik auszubilden."

Neutral

"Die Firma bildet jedes Jahr zehn neue Azubis aus."

Informal

"Mein Onkel bildet mich gerade in seiner Werkstatt aus."

Child friendly

"In der Schule werden die großen Kinder zu kleinen Helfern ausgebildet."

Slang

"Ich werde gerade zum 'Pro' ausgebildet."

Fun Fact

The word is closely related to the English word 'build,' but in German, it evolved to focus more on the intellectual and professional 'building' of a person rather than just physical structures.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈaʊ̯sˌbɪldn̩/

US /ˈaʊ̯sˌbɪldn̩/

Primary stress is on the prefix 'AUS'.

Rhymes With

nachbilden umbilden fortbilden mildern (slant) Schildern Wilden Gilden Bilden

Common Errors

Stressing the second syllable 'bil'. In German separable verbs, the prefix is almost always stressed.
Pronouncing the 'd' too softly. It should be distinct.
Muddling the 'n' at the end. It is often a syllabic 'n' following the 'd'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize, but the separable prefix can be far from the root in long sentences.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct placement of 'aus' and the use of the preposition 'zu'.

Speaking 4/5

Remembering to put 'aus' at the end while speaking takes practice.

Listening 3/5

The stressed 'AUS' at the start of the word is a good audio cue.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

bilden lernen Beruf Arbeit Soldat

Learn Next

fortbilden weiterbilden unterrichten lehren erziehen

Advanced

didaktisch pädagogisch Kompetenzentwicklung Einsatzbereitschaft Qualifikationsrahmen

Grammar to Know

Separable Verbs

Ich bilde dich aus. (The prefix moves to the end).

Passive Voice (Vorgangspassiv)

Soldaten werden ausgebildet.

Preposition 'zu' + Dative

Ausbildung zum Koch.

Perfect Tense of Separable Verbs

Er hat mich ausgebildet. (ge- goes between prefix and root).

Infinitive with 'zu'

Es ist schwer, Rekruten auszubilden.

Examples by Level

Die Firma bildet junge Leute aus.

The company trains young people.

Separable verb: 'aus' goes to the end.

Wo machen Sie Ihre Ausbildung?

Where are you doing your training?

Noun form: die Ausbildung.

Er bildet mich aus.

He is training me.

Direct object 'mich' (accusative).

Wir bilden hier Köche aus.

We train chefs here.

Plural object 'Köche'.

Ich will eine Ausbildung machen.

I want to do an apprenticeship.

Modal verb 'will' + infinitive.

Der Chef bildet den Azubi aus.

The boss trains the apprentice.

Azubi is short for Auszubildende.

Bildest du mich aus?

Are you training me?

Question form with separable verb.

Sie bilden gut aus.

They train well.

Adverb 'gut' modifies the action.

Die Armee bildet die neuen Soldaten aus.

The army trains the new soldiers.

Military context focus.

Ich werde zum Polizisten ausgebildet.

I am being trained as a police officer.

Passive voice with 'werden'.

Der Feldwebel bildet uns am Gewehr aus.

The sergeant trains us on the rifle.

Preposition 'am' (at/on) for tools.

Sie hat ihn drei Jahre lang ausgebildet.

She trained him for three years.

Perfect tense: 'hat ausgebildet'.

Wir bilden unsere Mitarbeiter ständig aus.

We are constantly training our employees.

Adverb 'ständig' for frequency.

Er bildet seinen Hund zum Rettungshund aus.

He is training his dog as a rescue dog.

Training animals for roles.

Muss ich die Rekruten heute ausbilden?

Do I have to train the recruits today?

Modal verb 'muss' with infinitive.

Die Schule bildet Lehrer aus.

The school trains teachers.

Institutional subject.

Die Soldaten werden für den Auslandseinsatz ausgebildet.

The soldiers are being trained for overseas deployment.

Passive voice + 'für' (purpose).

Es ist wichtig, Fachkräfte im eigenen Land auszubilden.

It is important to train skilled workers in one's own country.

Infinitive with 'zu'.

Wer hat dich an diesem Panzer ausgebildet?

Who trained you on this tank?

Question in the perfect tense.

Die Bundeswehr bildet Sanitäter in Erster Hilfe aus.

The Federal Defense Force trains paramedics in first aid.

Preposition 'in' for the subject matter.

Man muss Geduld haben, wenn man Rekruten ausbildet.

One must have patience when training recruits.

Subordinate clause with 'wenn'.

Sie lassen sich zu Piloten ausbilden.

They are having themselves trained as pilots.

Reflexive 'lassen sich' + infinitive.

Diese Akademie bildet seit 50 Jahren Offiziere aus.

This academy has been training officers for 50 years.

Present tense for ongoing duration with 'seit'.

Er wurde hervorragend zum Techniker ausgebildet.

He was excellently trained as a technician.

Passive voice + adverb 'hervorragend'.

Die Spezialeinheit bildet ihre Mitglieder unter extremen Bedingungen aus.

The special unit trains its members under extreme conditions.

Prepositional phrase 'unter... Bedingungen'.

Es mangelt an Betrieben, die im handwerklichen Bereich ausbilden.

There is a lack of companies that train in the craft sector.

Relative clause with 'die'.

Das Gehirn bildet neue Synapsen aus, wenn wir lernen.

The brain develops new synapses when we learn.

Abstract/Biological meaning: to develop.

Wir binden Partnernationen ein, um deren Armeen auszubilden.

We involve partner nations to train their armies.

Um...zu construction (purpose).

Hätten wir mehr Personal, könnten wir gründlicher ausbilden.

If we had more staff, we could train more thoroughly.

Subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II).

Die Rekruten müssen erst die Grundausbildung durchlaufen, bevor sie spezialisiert ausgebildet werden.

The recruits must first go through basic training before they are specially trained.

Passive voice + 'bevor' clause.

Er hat im Laufe der Jahre eine eigene Meinung ausgebildet.

Over the years, he has developed his own opinion.

Abstract use: forming an opinion.

Die Qualität der Ausbildung hängt vom Ausbilder ab.

The quality of the training depends on the trainer.

Noun 'Ausbildung' vs 'Ausbilder'.

Die Streitkräfte sind dazu verpflichtet, ihre Soldaten völkerrechtlich auszubilden.

The armed forces are obligated to train their soldiers in international law.

Dazu verpflichtet...zu construction.

Es gilt, die kognitiven Fähigkeiten der Schüler umfassend auszubilden.

It is necessary to comprehensively develop the cognitive abilities of the students.

Formal 'Es gilt... zu' structure.

Durch das harte Training bildete er eine enorme physische Ausdauer aus.

Through hard training, he developed enormous physical endurance.

Focus on the result of a process.

Die pädagogische Herausforderung besteht darin, junge Menschen zu kritischen Staatsbürgern auszubilden.

The pedagogical challenge consists of training young people to be critical citizens.

Darin...zu construction.

In der Krise bildeten sich neue Strukturen in der Befehlskette aus.

In the crisis, new structures developed in the chain of command.

Reflexive 'sich ausbilden' for spontaneous development.

Man darf nicht versäumen, das Personal an der neuen Software auszubilden.

One must not fail to train the staff on the new software.

Double negation 'nicht versäumen'.

Die Tradition, Lehrlinge so intensiv auszubilden, ist tief in der deutschen Kultur verwurzelt.

The tradition of training apprentices so intensively is deeply rooted in German culture.

Appositive infinitive clause.

Er wurde an der Elite-Akademie zum Führungskader ausgebildet.

He was trained as an elite leadership cadre at the academy.

Specific noun 'Führungskader'.

Die Ausbildung zum Offizier erfordert eine psychische Belastbarkeit, die erst im Prozess vollends ausgebildet wird.

Training as an officer requires psychological resilience that is only fully developed during the process.

Relative clause with passive voice.

Es ist ein Trugschluss zu glauben, dass man Soldaten allein durch Simulationen adäquat ausbilden könne.

It is a fallacy to believe that soldiers can be adequately trained through simulations alone.

Subjunctive I (Konjunktiv I) for reported thought.

Die geologischen Formationen bildeten sich über Jahrmillionen durch Erosion aus.

The geological formations were formed over millions of years through erosion.

Scientific/Geological register.

In seinem Spätwerk bildete der Philosoph eine völlig neue Terminologie aus.

In his late work, the philosopher developed a completely new terminology.

Intellectual/Literary register.

Die Notwendigkeit, Truppen für asymmetrische Kriegsführung auszubilden, veränderte das gesamte Curriculum.

The necessity of training troops for asymmetric warfare changed the entire curriculum.

Abstract military terminology.

Die Art und Weise, wie wir unsere Jugend ausbilden, determiniert die Zukunft unserer Zivilisation.

The way we educate our youth determines the future of our civilization.

Philosophical/Sociological register.

Er hat die Gabe ausgebildet, auch in chaotischen Situationen Ruhe zu bewahren.

He has developed the gift of remaining calm even in chaotic situations.

Development of a character trait.

Die Bundeswehr sieht sich in der Pflicht, Soldaten nicht nur technisch, sondern auch moralisch auszubilden.

The Bundeswehr sees it as its duty to train soldiers not only technically but also morally.

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

Common Collocations

Soldaten ausbilden

Lehrlinge ausbilden

zum Piloten ausbilden

an der Waffe ausbilden

gründlich ausbilden

Nachwuchs ausbilden

Spezialkräfte ausbilden

theoretisch ausbilden

praktisch ausbilden

einen Charakter ausbilden

Common Phrases

Wir bilden aus!

— A common sign in shop windows meaning 'We are looking for apprentices.'

Auf der Bäckerei klebt ein Schild: Wir bilden aus!

zum Experten ausbilden

— To train someone until they reach expert status.

Die IT-Firma bildet ihre Mitarbeiter zu Experten aus.

an Geräten ausbilden

— To train someone on how to use specific machinery or devices.

Die Techniker werden an den neuen Geräten ausgebildet.

für den Ernstfall ausbilden

— To train for a real emergency or combat situation.

Feuerwehrleute werden für den Ernstfall ausgebildet.

nach Standards ausbilden

— To train according to official or legal standards.

Wir bilden streng nach den IHK-Standards aus.

vielfältig ausbilden

— To provide a broad and diverse training.

Die Universität bildet ihre Studenten vielfältig aus.

einen Nachfolger ausbilden

— To train someone to take over one's position.

Der Chef bildet bereits seinen Nachfolger aus.

im Ausland ausbilden

— To conduct training in a foreign country.

Die Bundeswehr bildet Soldaten auch im Ausland aus.

digital ausbilden

— To use digital tools for training purposes.

In Zeiten der Pandemie mussten wir digital ausbilden.

zuverlässig ausbilden

— To train in a way that ensures reliability.

Die Flugschule bildet sehr zuverlässig aus.

Often Confused With

ausbilden vs erziehen

Erziehen is for children/morals; ausbilden is for skills/jobs.

ausbilden vs lernen

Lernen is the student's action; ausbilden is the trainer's action.

ausbilden vs unterrichten

Unterrichten is for school subjects; ausbilden is for professional qualifications.

Idioms & Expressions

"jemanden auf Herz und Nieren prüfen"

— Often used during training to mean testing someone very thoroughly.

Während der Ausbildung werden die Rekruten auf Herz und Nieren geprüft.

informal

"Schule des Lebens"

— The idea that life itself trains you better than any school.

Die Ausbildung war gut, aber die Schule des Lebens war härter.

neutral

"etwas von der Pike auf lernen"

— To learn a profession from the very bottom up (military origin).

Er hat das Handwerk von der Pike auf gelernt.

neutral

"jemandem den Schliff geben"

— To give someone the final polish or finishing touches in their training.

In der Spezialausbildung bekommt der Soldat seinen letzten Schliff.

informal

"ins kalte Wasser werfen"

— To put a trainee into a difficult situation without enough preparation.

Man hat den neuen Azubi direkt ins kalte Wasser geworfen.

informal

"Lehrjahre sind keine Herrenjahre"

— A proverb meaning that the years of training are hard and you are not the boss.

Beschwer dich nicht, Lehrjahre sind keine Herrenjahre!

neutral

"ein alter Hase sein"

— To be an expert who no longer needs training.

Unser Ausbilder ist ein alter Hase im Geschäft.

informal

"auf Draht sein"

— To be alert and well-trained.

Die Soldaten müssen während der Ausbildung immer auf Draht sein.

informal

"jemanden an die Hand nehmen"

— To guide a trainee closely.

Am Anfang der Ausbildung nimmt der Meister den Lehrling an die Hand.

neutral

"seinen Mann stehen"

— To prove oneself after being trained.

Nach der Ausbildung musste er im Einsatz seinen Mann stehen.

neutral

Easily Confused

ausbilden vs abbilden

Similar prefix and root.

Abbilden means to depict or illustrate; ausbilden means to train.

Das Foto bildet die Realität ab.

ausbilden vs einbilden

Similar prefix and root.

Einbilden means to imagine or be conceited.

Er bildet sich viel auf seinen Erfolg ein.

ausbilden vs fortbilden

Same context of education.

Fortbilden is further training for someone who is already qualified.

Ärzte müssen sich ständig fortbilden.

ausbilden vs weiterbilden

Same context of education.

Similar to fortbilden, but often implies broader or new areas of knowledge.

Ich möchte mich in Sprachen weiterbilden.

ausbilden vs ausbauen

Similar prefix and meaning of building.

Ausbauen is for physical structures or expanding a business/network.

Wir müssen die Autobahn ausbauen.

Sentence Patterns

Subjekt + bildet + Objekt + aus.

Die Firma bildet mich aus.

Subjekt + bildet + Objekt + zum [Job] + aus.

Er bildet mich zum Bäcker aus.

Subjekt + hat + Objekt + ausgebildet.

Sie hat mich gut ausgebildet.

Objekt + wird + (von Subjekt) + ausgebildet.

Ich werde von der Armee ausgebildet.

Subjekt + lässt + sich + zum [Job] + ausbilden.

Er lässt sich zum Sanitäter ausbilden.

Subjekt + bildet + Objekt + an [Gerät] + aus.

Der Feldwebel bildet sie am Funkgerät aus.

Es gilt, [Objekt] in [Bereich] auszubilden.

Es gilt, die Jugend in Technik auszubilden.

Die Ausbildung zum [Job] erfordert [Eigenschaft].

Die Ausbildung zum Offizier erfordert Mut.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in professional, educational, and military contexts in Germany.

Common Mistakes

Ich ausbilde Rekruten. → Ich bilde Rekruten aus.
Separable verbs must be split in the present tense.
Er wird als Pilot ausgebildet. → Er wird zum Piloten ausgebildet.
The preposition 'zu' is required for the resulting profession.
Meine Eltern bilden mich gut aus. → Meine Eltern erziehen mich gut.
Use 'erziehen' for upbringing and morals, not 'ausbilden'.
Ich habe Rekruten geausbildet. → Ich habe Rekruten ausgebildet.
In the perfect tense of separable verbs, 'ge' goes between the prefix and the root.
Die Armee lernt die Soldaten. → Die Armee bildet die Soldaten aus.
'Lernen' means to learn; 'ausbilden' means to train someone else.

Tips

Separable Verb Rule

Always put 'aus' at the very end. Even if the sentence is 20 words long, 'aus' waits until the period.

Military Use

In the military, 'ausbilden' implies discipline and readiness. It's not just learning; it's becoming a soldier.

Job Ads

When you see 'Wir bilden aus' on a shop, it's an invitation for young people to apply for an apprenticeship.

Stress the Prefix

Say 'AUS-bilden', not 'aus-BILDEN'. The stress on the prefix is key for all separable verbs.

The Dual System

Remember that 'ausbilden' often happens in two places at once: the company and the vocational school.

Resumes

On your German CV, list your training under the heading 'Berufsausbildung'.

Building a Person

Think of 'bilden' as 'building'. You are building a person out (aus) into their new career.

The 'Zu' Rule

Always use 'zu' for the job title. 'Zum Soldaten', 'zur Krankenschwester'.

Ausbilden vs. Lernen

If you are the boss, you 'bildest aus'. If you are the student, you 'lernst'.

Working Dogs

You can 'ausbilden' a dog for a job, but you 'erziehen' a dog to be a good pet at home.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a sculptor who takes a rough block (the recruit) and 'builds' (bilden) them 'out' (aus) into a perfect soldier statue. AUS + BILDEN = Out-Building the skills.

Visual Association

Picture a soldier standing in front of a giant puzzle. Every day of training, a new piece of his uniform or equipment is 'built' onto him until he is complete.

Word Web

Lehrer Soldat Beruf Schule Lernen Zukunft Zertifikat Firma

Challenge

Try to use 'ausbilden' in three sentences today: one about a job, one about a soldier, and one in the past tense (Perfekt).

Word Origin

Derived from the Middle High German 'bilten' and Old High German 'bilidōn,' which mean 'to create' or 'to give a shape.' The prefix 'aus-' was added to signify completion or bringing something out of a raw state.

Original meaning: To give something its final shape or to bring a form to perfection.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Cultural Context

In Germany, military terms are used with care due to 20th-century history. However, 'ausbilden' is a neutral, professional term used by the modern, democratic 'Bundeswehr' and is not considered controversial.

English speakers often say 'I am a trained [profession].' Germans say 'Ich bin als [profession] ausgebildet.' The structure is very similar, but the German emphasis on the *process* of 'Ausbildung' is much stronger.

The 'Bundeswehr' recruitment slogan: 'Wir. Dienen. Deutschland.' (often linked to their training programs). The 'Berufsbildungsgesetz' (BBiG) - the law that regulates how people are ausgebildet. The concept of 'Bildungsroman' in literature, which tracks the 'Ausbildung' of a character's soul.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Military Service

Grundausbildung machen
an der Waffe ausbilden
zum Offizier ausbilden
Taktik ausbilden

Apprenticeships

einen Ausbildungsplatz suchen
Lehrlinge ausbilden
Berufsschule besuchen
Gesellenprüfung machen

Corporate Training

Mitarbeiter schulen
Soft Skills ausbilden
Führungskräfte entwickeln
Inhouse-Ausbildung

Animal Training

Hunde ausbilden
Pferde zurichten
Rettungshunde-Ausbildung
Gehorsam trainieren

Personal Development

Fähigkeiten ausbilden
Talente fördern
Charakterbildung
sich weiterbilden

Conversation Starters

"Wo wurdest du für deinen aktuellen Job ausgebildet?"

"Glaubst du, dass die Bundeswehr genug junge Menschen ausbildet?"

"Sollte man Soldaten auch in ethischen Fragen ausbilden?"

"Was ist wichtiger: theoretisch oder praktisch ausgebildet zu werden?"

"Würdest du dich gerne zum Piloten ausbilden lassen?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe deine eigene Ausbildung. Was hast du gelernt und wer hat dich ausgebildet?

Warum ist es für ein Land wichtig, eine starke Armee auszubilden?

Wenn du eine Firma hättest, in welchem Bereich würdest du Lehrlinge ausbilden?

Wie hat die Ausbildung dein Denken oder deinen Charakter verändert?

Vergleiche das Lernen in der Schule mit dem Ausgebildet-Werden im Beruf.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually no. Use 'erziehen' for raising them or 'beibringen' for teaching them a specific skill like riding a bike. 'Ausbilden' is for formal, professional training.

A 'Lehrer' (teacher) works in a school and teaches subjects like math. An 'Ausbilder' (trainer) works in a company or the military and teaches practical job skills.

No, it is used for all vocational training in Germany. However, it is the primary word used in the military for training soldiers.

You say 'Ich mache eine Ausbildung' or 'Ich bin in der Ausbildung'.

Yes, you must specify who is being trained. If you are the one being trained, use the passive 'Ich werde ausgebildet' or 'Ich lasse mich ausbilden'.

No, but you can be trained *on* a machine (an einer Maschine ausgebildet werden). The trainer is always a person or an institution.

It is a very common abbreviation for 'Auszubildende' used in daily life and even in many offices, but in very formal documents, the full word is used.

It is the 'basic training' that every soldier must complete when they join the military.

Yes, specifically working animals like police dogs, rescue dogs, or guide dogs for the blind.

Use 'in'. For example: 'Er bildet mich in Erster Hilfe aus.' (He is training me in first aid.)