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verfügbar

B1 adjective #1,000 most common 10 min read

verfügbar

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips verfügbar in 30 Seconds

Explanation verfügbar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn that 'verfügbar' means 'available'. You might see it on a website or a sign. It is a long word, but don't be afraid! It is used to say if you can buy something or if a room is free. For example, if you look for a hotel, you see 'Zimmer verfügbar'. This means there are rooms you can book. You can also use it for simple things like 'Is there water?' though 'da' is easier. At this level, just remember that 'verfügbar' is a professional way to say 'it is here and you can use it'. You will mostly see it in the form 'ist verfügbar' or 'nicht verfügbar'. It is very useful for shopping and travel. If you see a red light on a machine, it might say 'nicht verfügbar'. If you see a green light, it might say 'verfügbar'. Learning this word early helps you understand official signs and websites in Germany. It is one of those 'long' German words that actually has a very simple meaning. Just think of the 'v' sounding like an 'f' and the 'ü' like the 'u' in 'pure' but with rounded lips. Practice saying 'ist verfügbar' to sound more advanced than just saying 'ist da'. It is a great word to add to your basic travel vocabulary.

At the A2 level, you start using 'verfügbar' in more complete sentences. You can talk about your own time or the availability of things you need. For example, 'Ich bin morgen nicht verfügbar' (I am not available tomorrow). This is very helpful for making plans with friends or colleagues. You also learn that 'verfügbar' is an adjective. This means it can change its ending if it comes before a noun. However, at A2, you mostly use it after the verb 'sein', where it does not change. You might say 'Das Buch ist verfügbar' or 'Die Tickets sind verfügbar'. You will also notice it in more contexts, like 'WLAN ist verfügbar' (Wi-Fi is available). This is a key word for navigating modern life in Germany. You can ask questions like 'Ab wann ist der Tisch verfügbar?' (From when is the table available?). This shows you are moving beyond the most basic words and using more precise vocabulary. You should also start to recognize the opposite: 'unverfügbar' or 'nicht verfügbar'. Understanding this word helps you read product descriptions on German websites more accurately. It is a bridge to more professional German. You are starting to understand that German often has a 'simple' word and a 'formal' word for the same thing. 'Verfügbar' is the formal version of 'da' or 'frei'.

At the B1 level, 'verfügbar' becomes a standard part of your vocabulary, especially for work and formal situations. You are expected to use it correctly in both predicative ('Das System ist verfügbar') and attributive ('Die verfügbaren Plätze') positions. You should understand the difference between 'verfügbar' and 'vorhanden'. While 'vorhanden' means something exists, 'verfügbar' means it is ready for use. For example, 'Geld ist vorhanden' (Money is there/exists), but 'Das Geld ist nicht verfügbar' (The money is not available/accessible, perhaps it is in a fixed-term account). You will use 'verfügbar' to discuss resources, time management, and logistics. You might say, 'Wir müssen prüfen, welche Mitarbeiter nächste Woche verfügbar sind.' This level also introduces the noun 'Verfügbarkeit' (availability). You can talk about 'die Verfügbarkeit von Rohstoffen' (the availability of raw materials). You are also learning to use it with adverbs to add precision, such as 'jederzeit verfügbar' (available at any time) or 'begrenzt verfügbar' (limited availability). This word is essential for the B1 exam, particularly in the writing and speaking sections where you might have to organize a meeting or inquire about a service. It shows a level of sophistication and professional competence in the language.

At the B2 level, you use 'verfügbar' in complex discussions about economics, technology, and social issues. You will encounter terms like 'verfügbares Einkommen' (disposable income), which is a key concept in economic news. You should be able to discuss the 'Verfügbarkeit von Informationen' in the digital age and how it affects society. At this level, you also start to master the related verb 'verfügen'. Remember the important grammar rule: 'verfügen' takes the preposition 'über' + Accusative. For example, 'Er verfügt über großes Wissen' (He has great knowledge at his disposal). While 'verfügbar' is an adjective, the verb 'verfügen' adds a sense of power or mastery. You will also see 'verfügbar' used in more abstract ways, such as 'die frei verfügbare Zeit' (free time at one's disposal). You should be comfortable using the word in formal letters and reports. For instance, 'Trotz der verfügbaren Mittel konnte das Projekt nicht abgeschlossen werden' (Despite the available means, the project could not be completed). You are now expected to understand the nuances between 'verfügbar', 'zugänglich', and 'bereit'. Your usage should be precise, reflecting the specific context of the situation. This word is a key indicator of your ability to handle professional and academic German.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'verfügbar' extends to its most subtle and formal applications. You will encounter it in legal texts, high-level business reports, and philosophical discourses. You should be familiar with the phrase 'zur Verfügung stehen' (to be available/at someone's disposal), which is a very common and sophisticated alternative to 'verfügbar sein'. For example, 'Für weitere Fragen stehe ich Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung' is the standard way to end a formal German business letter. You will also analyze how 'Verfügbarkeit' is used in specialized fields like IT (High Availability/Hochverfügbarkeit) or Logistics (Just-in-time Verfügbarkeit). You should be able to discuss the socio-political implications of resource availability, such as 'die Verfügbarkeit von sauberem Trinkwasser'. Furthermore, you will recognize the word in literary contexts where it might describe a person's emotional or mental state—being 'verfügbar' for someone else's needs. You should also be aware of the noun 'Verfügung', which can mean a legal decree ('einstweilige Verfügung' - preliminary injunction). At this level, you are not just using the word; you are mastering the entire semantic field surrounding it. Your ability to switch between 'verfügbar', 'disponibel', and 'abrufbar' depending on the register is a hallmark of C1 proficiency.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'verfügbar' and its various connotations. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from a casual conversation to a complex legal argument. You understand the historical development of the word from its roots in 'fügen' and how it has evolved to represent the modern concept of 'availability' in a globalized, digital world. You can appreciate the nuances in literary works where 'Verfügbarkeit' might be used as a metaphor for existential openness or the lack thereof. You are comfortable with highly specialized terminology, such as 'biologische Verfügbarkeit' (bioavailability) in pharmacology or 'Systemverfügbarkeit' in engineering. You can use the word in idiomatic expressions and complex sentence structures without hesitation. For example, you might discuss the 'Unverfügbarkeit des Glücks' (the unavailability/uncontrollability of happiness) in a philosophical essay. Your command of the word includes its negative forms and related nouns in all their declensions and cases. You can effortlessly substitute it with more obscure synonyms like 'disponibel' or 'vorrätig' when the context demands a specific tone. At this level, 'verfügbar' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile tool that you use to convey precise shades of meaning in the most sophisticated German discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

verfügbar in 30 Seconds

Verfügbar means available or accessible in German.
It is used for products, services, and people's time.
The noun form is Verfügbarkeit (availability).
Commonly used in business, tech, and daily life.

The German adjective verfügbar is a cornerstone of intermediate German communication, primarily translating to 'available' or 'accessible' in English. At its core, it describes a state where something—be it an object, a person, or a digital resource—is ready to be used, obtained, or consulted without any immediate hindrance. The word is derived from the verb verfügen, which historically relates to having power or control over something. Therefore, when we say something is verfügbar, we are essentially saying it is within our reach or at our disposal.

Etymological Root: The root 'fügen' means to join or fit. The prefix 'ver-' often denotes a process or a change of state. In the context of 'verfügbar', it implies that something has been 'fitted' into a state where it can be utilized.

In modern daily life, you will encounter this word constantly. Whether you are checking the stock of a product on an e-commerce website like Amazon.de, looking for a hotel room on Booking.com, or asking a colleague if they have time for a meeting, verfügbar is the go-to term. It bridges the gap between physical presence and functional readiness. For instance, a book might be physically present in a library, but if it is currently being repaired, it is not verfügbar.

Das neue Software-Update ist ab sofort für alle Benutzer verfügbar.

This sentence illustrates a very common usage in the tech industry, where 'availability' refers to the release of digital assets. Furthermore, the word carries a certain level of formality. While you might use 'da' (there/present) in a very casual setting ('Ist noch Pizza da?'), verfügbar is preferred in business, academia, and official announcements.

Synonym Distinction: Unlike 'vorhanden' (existing/present), 'verfügbar' emphasizes the ability to use the object. A resource might be 'vorhanden' (present in the warehouse) but not 'verfügbar' (perhaps it is reserved for someone else).

Sind Sie morgen für ein kurzes Telefonat verfügbar?

This question is a standard way to check someone's schedule. It is polite, clear, and professional.

Die verfügbaren Plätze sind begrenzt.

In this case, 'verfügbaren' is the attributive form, modifying 'Plätze' (seats).

Digital Context: In IT, 'High Availability' is translated as 'Hochverfügbarkeit', referring to systems that are operational almost 100% of the time.

Leider ist dieser Artikel momentan nicht verfügbar.

This is perhaps the most common phrase you will see when shopping online. It conveys the unavailability of a product clearly and neutrally.

Using verfügbar correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as an adjective and its common syntactic patterns. Most frequently, it appears in a predicative position following the verb sein (to be). In this structure, the adjective remains undeclined regardless of the subject's gender or number.

Das WLAN ist in diesem Hotel überall verfügbar.

Here, 'WLAN' is the subject, and 'verfügbar' describes its state.

Attributive Usage: When placed directly before a noun, 'verfügbar' must take the appropriate adjective ending. For example: 'die verfügbaren Mittel' (the available means), 'ein verfügbarer Mitarbeiter' (an available employee), or 'das verfügbare Einkommen' (disposable income).

Another critical aspect is the prepositional connection. While 'verfügbar' is often used alone, the related verb verfügen requires the preposition über plus the accusative case. This is a common point of confusion for learners. You say 'etwas ist verfügbar' (something is available), but 'jemand verfügt über etwas' (someone has something at their disposal).

Wir müssen die verfügbaren Ressourcen effizient nutzen.

In this sentence, the adjective is declined for a plural accusative noun following a definite article.

Negative Forms: To say something is unavailable, you can use 'nicht verfügbar' or the prefix 'un-', resulting in 'unverfügbar'. However, 'nicht verfügbar' is much more common in everyday speech and business.

Ist der Chef gerade verfügbar?

This is a standard office question. It asks if the boss is free to talk.

Comparison: The comparative forms are 'verfügbarer' and 'am verfügbarsten', though they are rarely used. Usually, availability is seen as a binary state (either it is or it isn't).

Alle verfügbaren Informationen deuten auf einen Erfolg hin.

Here, 'verfügbaren' modifies 'Informationen' (plural).

Das Medikament ist nur auf Rezept verfügbar.

This indicates a legal or procedural restriction on availability. It shows that 'verfügbar' can describe more than just physical presence; it describes the conditions under which something can be accessed.

In the German-speaking world, verfügbar is ubiquitous across various domains. If you are traveling through Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, you will hear it in public announcements. At a train station, if a certain service (like a bistro car) is not operational, the announcement might state it is 'nicht verfügbar'. In hotels, the reception desk will use it to discuss room types.

E-Commerce and Retail: Websites like Zalando or Otto use 'verfügbar' to indicate if a size is in stock. You will often see 'In Kürze wieder verfügbar' (Available again soon).

In a professional office environment, 'verfügbar' is the standard term for availability on calendar apps like Outlook or Microsoft Teams. Your status might be 'Verfügbar' (green icon), 'Beschäftigt' (busy), or 'Nicht verfügbar' (offline/away).

Mein Kalender zeigt an, dass ich ab 15 Uhr verfügbar bin.

This is a very natural way to discuss scheduling.

Public Services: Government websites often mention that certain forms or documents are 'online verfügbar' (available online), saving citizens a trip to the 'Bürgeramt'.

Gibt es verfügbare Parkplätze in der Nähe?

This is a common question when driving in a busy city like Berlin or Munich.

Scientific and Academic Context: In research papers, authors often state that 'Daten sind auf Anfrage verfügbar' (Data are available upon request), following transparency guidelines.

Die Software ist für Windows und macOS verfügbar.

This highlights cross-platform compatibility. Overall, 'verfügbar' is a word that signals professionalism and precision. It avoids the ambiguity of simpler words and provides a clear status update on the readiness of a person or thing.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using verfügbar is confusing it with the word bereit (ready). While they are related, 'bereit' usually refers to a person being prepared to do something ('Ich bin bereit zu gehen' - I am ready to go), whereas 'verfügbar' refers to being free or available for a task ('Ich bin morgen verfügbar' - I am available tomorrow).

Confusion with 'Vorhanden': As mentioned before, 'vorhanden' means 'existing' or 'present'. If you say a tool is 'vorhanden', you mean it exists in the workshop. If you say it is 'verfügbar', you mean no one else is using it and you can take it right now.

Another common error involves the prepositional usage. Many learners try to use 'verfügbar' with 'von' or 'mit', influenced by English 'available from' or 'available with'. In German, we usually use 'verfügbar' without a preposition for the source, or we use 'bei' (at/with a company) or 'über' (via).

Falsch: Das Buch ist verfügbar von Amazon.
Richtig: Das Buch ist bei Amazon verfügbar.

Declension Errors: Learners often forget to decline the adjective when it's in front of a noun. 'Alle verfügbar Plätze' is incorrect; it must be 'Alle verfügbaren Plätze'.

Falsch: Ich habe kein verfügbar Geld.
Richtig: Ich habe kein verfügbares Geld.

This is a classic case of missing the neuter accusative ending '-es' after 'kein'.

Word Order: In subordinate clauses, the verb 'sein' moves to the end, which can push 'verfügbar' to the penultimate position. 'Ich weiß nicht, ob das Zimmer verfügbar ist.'

Falsch: Er ist nicht verfügbar heute.
Richtig: Er ist heute nicht verfügbar.

Adverbs of time like 'heute' usually come before the adjective in the predicate.

To sound more like a native speaker, it is helpful to know when to use verfügbar and when to opt for a synonym. While 'verfügbar' is the most versatile term, other words can provide more specific nuances.

Vorrätig: This specifically refers to items in stock in a shop or warehouse. If a store has a pair of shoes, they are 'vorrätig'. While they are also 'verfügbar', 'vorrätig' is the more precise retail term.
Abrufbereit: Used for things that are ready to be called upon or activated. Often used in technical or military contexts, or for on-call employees.
Greifbar: Literally 'graspable'. It means something is within reach or tangible. It can also be used figuratively for results or evidence that are finally becoming clear.

Das Angebot ist nur solange der Vorrat reicht vorrätig.

This is a common phrase in advertisements.

Zugänglich: Means 'accessible'. While 'verfügbar' means you can use it, 'zugänglich' means you can reach it or get into it. A building might be 'zugänglich' (the door is open) but the office equipment inside might not be 'verfügbar' (it's locked in a cabinet).

Die Daten sind für die Öffentlichkeit frei zugänglich.

This emphasizes that there are no barriers to seeing the data.

Offen: Sometimes 'open' can mean available, especially for appointments. 'Ich habe noch einen Termin offen' (I still have an appointment slot open/available).

Ist dieser Platz noch frei?

This is the most common way to ask if a seat is available in a cafe or on a train. 'Verfügbar' would sound too formal here.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root 'fügen' is related to the English word 'fadge' (to fit or suit), though 'fadge' is now largely obsolete.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /fɛɐ̯ˈfyːkbaːɐ̯/

US /fɛrˈfykbɑr/

The stress is on the second syllable: ver-FÜG-bar.

Rhymes With

kündbar prüfbar spürbar führbar klagbar tragbar sichtbar machbar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'v' like an English 'v' (it should be 'f').
Pronouncing the 'ü' like an 'u' or 'i'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable.
Swallowing the 'g' in the middle.
Mispronouncing the final 'r' as a hard consonant.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize once the root is known.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct adjective endings in attributive use.

Speaking 4/5

The 'ü' and 'v' sounds can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation in most contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

sein haben frei da bereit

Learn Next

Verfügbarkeit verfügen vorhanden zugänglich vorrätig

Advanced

disponibel abrufbar einstweilige Verfügung Hochverfügbarkeit

Grammar to Know

Adjective Declension

Ein verfügbarer Platz (masculine nominative).

Predicative Adjectives

Der Platz ist verfügbar (no ending).

Verb 'verfügen über'

Er verfügt über ein Auto.

Subordinate Clause Word Order

Ich hoffe, dass es verfügbar ist.

Compound Nouns

Die Datenverfügbarkeit ist wichtig.

Examples by Level

Ist das Zimmer verfügbar?

Is the room available?

Simple predicative use of the adjective.

Das Wasser ist nicht verfügbar.

The water is not available.

Negation with 'nicht'.

Sind Tickets verfügbar?

Are tickets available?

Plural subject with 'sind'.

Kaffee ist verfügbar.

Coffee is available.

Uncountable noun as subject.

Ist Hilfe verfügbar?

Is help available?

Abstract noun as subject.

Das Buch ist heute verfügbar.

The book is available today.

Adverb of time 'heute'.

Ein Tisch ist verfügbar.

A table is available.

Indefinite article 'ein'.

Ist WLAN hier verfügbar?

Is Wi-Fi available here?

Adverb of place 'hier'.

Ich bin morgen ab 10 Uhr verfügbar.

I am available tomorrow from 10 o'clock.

Prepositional phrase 'ab 10 Uhr'.

Gibt es verfügbare Plätze im Bus?

Are there available seats on the bus?

Attributive use with adjective ending '-e' (plural).

Die App ist jetzt im Store verfügbar.

The app is now available in the store.

Adverb 'jetzt'.

Dieses Modell ist leider nicht mehr verfügbar.

This model is unfortunately no longer available.

Phrase 'nicht mehr' (no longer).

Sind Sie für ein Gespräch verfügbar?

Are you available for a conversation?

Preposition 'für' + Accusative.

Das Formular ist online verfügbar.

The form is available online.

Adverb 'online'.

Wann ist der Chef wieder verfügbar?

When is the boss available again?

Interrogative 'Wann' and adverb 'wieder'.

Es sind keine verfügbaren Zimmer mehr da.

There are no more available rooms left.

Attributive use with 'keine' (plural).

Wir müssen prüfen, welche Ressourcen verfügbar sind.

We need to check which resources are available.

Indirect question with 'welche' in a subordinate clause.

Das verfügbare Budget ist dieses Jahr sehr klein.

The available budget is very small this year.

Attributive use with neuter ending '-e' after definite article.

Ist das Update für alle Betriebssysteme verfügbar?

Is the update available for all operating systems?

Preposition 'für' + Accusative plural.

Informationen sind jederzeit über unsere Website verfügbar.

Information is available at any time via our website.

Adverb 'jederzeit' and preposition 'über'.

Leider ist der Kollege momentan nicht verfügbar.

Unfortunately, the colleague is currently not available.

Adverb 'momentan'.

Gibt es eine Liste der verfügbaren Medikamente?

Is there a list of the available medicines?

Genitive plural 'der verfügbaren Medikamente'.

Die verfügbare Zeit reicht für dieses Projekt nicht aus.

The available time is not enough for this project.

Attributive use with feminine ending '-e'.

Sind die Daten für die Analyse verfügbar?

Are the data available for the analysis?

Plural subject 'Daten'.

Das verfügbare Einkommen der Haushalte ist gestiegen.

The disposable income of households has increased.

Economic term 'verfügbares Einkommen'.

Es stehen nicht genügend verfügbare Fachkräfte bereit.

There are not enough available skilled workers ready.

Attributive use with 'genügend'.

Die Software ist nur in der Premium-Version verfügbar.

The software is only available in the premium version.

Prepositional phrase 'in der Premium-Version'.

Wir müssen die verfügbaren Mittel effizienter einsetzen.

We must use the available means more efficiently.

Attributive use in Accusative plural.

Ist das Medikament in Deutschland bereits verfügbar?

Is the drug already available in Germany?

Adverb 'bereits' (already).

Die Verfügbarkeit von Ersatzteilen ist kritisch.

The availability of spare parts is critical.

Noun 'Verfügbarkeit' derived from the adjective.

Alle verfügbaren Beweise deuten auf ihn hin.

All available evidence points to him.

Attributive use with 'Alle'.

Das Angebot ist nur solange verfügbar, wie der Vorrat reicht.

The offer is only available as long as stocks last.

Comparison with 'solange... wie'.

Für Rückfragen stehe ich Ihnen jederzeit gerne zur Verfügung.

I am happy to be at your disposal for any further questions at any time.

Idiom 'zur Verfügung stehen'.

Die Verfügbarkeit von Informationen hat sich radikal verändert.

The availability of information has changed radically.

Abstract noun usage.

Trotz der verfügbaren Optionen konnte keine Einigung erzielt werden.

Despite the available options, no agreement could be reached.

Preposition 'Trotz' + Genitive.

Das Gericht stellte die Akten als öffentlich verfügbar ein.

The court classified the files as publicly available.

Adverbial phrase 'öffentlich verfügbar'.

Die biologische Verfügbarkeit des Wirkstoffs ist hoch.

The bioavailability of the active ingredient is high.

Scientific term 'biologische Verfügbarkeit'.

Wir verfügen über die notwendigen Kapazitäten.

We have the necessary capacities at our disposal.

Verb 'verfügen über' + Accusative.

Die Unverfügbarkeit bestimmter Ressourcen bremst das Wachstum.

The unavailability of certain resources slows down growth.

Negative noun 'Unverfügbarkeit'.

Er ist ein stets verfügbarer Ansprechpartner für seine Mitarbeiter.

He is an always available contact person for his employees.

Attributive use with adverb 'stets'.

Die ontologische Unverfügbarkeit des Seins ist ein zentrales Thema.

The ontological unavailability of being is a central theme.

Highly abstract philosophical usage.

Das System garantiert eine Hochverfügbarkeit von 99,9 Prozent.

The system guarantees a high availability of 99.9 percent.

Technical compound 'Hochverfügbarkeit'.

In der Krise wurde die Begrenztheit der verfügbaren Güter deutlich.

In the crisis, the limited nature of available goods became clear.

Complex sentence with Genitive and Participle.

Sie verfügt über eine beeindruckende rhetorische Begabung.

She possesses an impressive rhetorical talent.

Verb 'verfügen über' used for talents.

Die Verfügbarkeit von Daten darf nicht mit deren Richtigkeit verwechselt werden.

The availability of data must not be confused with its accuracy.

Passive voice with modal verb.

Es ist eine Frage der Zeit, bis diese Technologie allgemein verfügbar ist.

It is a matter of time until this technology is generally available.

Subordinate clause with 'bis'.

Die frei verfügbare Zeit wird in unserer Leistungsgesellschaft immer knapper.

Freely available time is becoming increasingly scarce in our meritocracy.

Compound adjective 'frei verfügbar'.

Durch die Digitalisierung sind Wissen und Bildung weltweit verfügbarer geworden.

Through digitalization, knowledge and education have become more available worldwide.

Comparative form 'verfügbarer'.

Synonyms

vorhanden bereit vorrätig zugänglich frei abrufbar disponibel offen

Antonyms

unverfügbar besetzt vergriffen ausverkauft

Common Collocations

jederzeit verfügbar

frei verfügbar

öffentlich verfügbar

begrenzt verfügbar

sofort verfügbar

nicht mehr verfügbar

online verfügbar

allgemein verfügbar

lokal verfügbar

kurzfristig verfügbar

Common Phrases

Zur Verfügung stehen

— To be available or at someone's disposal.

Ich stehe Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung.

Zur Verfügung stellen

— To provide or make something available.

Die Firma stellt einen Laptop zur Verfügung.

Verfügbares Einkommen

— The money left after taxes (disposable income).

Das verfügbare Einkommen sinkt.

Nicht verfügbar sein

— To be busy or out of stock.

Der gewünschte Teilnehmer ist nicht verfügbar.

Ab sofort verfügbar

— Available starting immediately.

Das neue Album ist ab sofort verfügbar.

Wieder verfügbar

— Available again.

Das Produkt ist bald wieder verfügbar.

Über etwas verfügen

— To have something at one's disposal (verb form).

Er verfügt über viel Erfahrung.

Nur solange der Vorrat reicht

— Only while stocks last (implies availability).

Das Angebot gilt nur solange der Vorrat reicht.

In Kürze verfügbar

— Available shortly.

Weitere Informationen sind in Kürze verfügbar.

Überall verfügbar

— Available everywhere.

Das Signal ist überall verfügbar.

Often Confused With

verfügbar vs bereit

Bereit means 'ready to act', while verfügbar means 'free to be used'.

verfügbar vs vorhanden

Vorhanden means 'existing', while verfügbar means 'accessible for use'.

verfügbar vs offen

Offen can mean available for appointments, but also literally 'open' like a door.

Idioms & Expressions

"Jemandem zur Verfügung stehen"

— To be ready to help someone.

Wenn Sie Hilfe brauchen, stehe ich Ihnen zur Verfügung.

formal

"Etwas zur Verfügung haben"

— To have something ready to use.

Wir haben alle nötigen Werkzeuge zur Verfügung.

neutral

"Über seine Zeit frei verfügen"

— To be the master of one's own time.

Im Ruhestand kann er frei über seine Zeit verfügen.

neutral

"Anordnungen verfügen"

— To issue official orders (legal/formal).

Das Ministerium hat neue Maßnahmen verfügt.

formal

"Über jemanden verfügen"

— To have control over someone (rare/literary).

Niemand darf über mein Leben verfügen.

literary

"Eine einstweilige Verfügung"

— A preliminary injunction (legal term).

Das Gericht erließ eine einstweilige Verfügung.

legal

"Über Mittel verfügen"

— To have financial resources.

Die Stiftung verfügt über beträchtliche Mittel.

formal

"Verfügungsgewalt haben"

— To have the power of disposal.

Wer hat die Verfügungsgewalt über das Konto?

legal

"Letztwillige Verfügung"

— A will or testament.

Er änderte seine letztwillige Verfügung.

legal

"Etwas steht nicht zur Verfügung"

— Something is not an option.

Diese Option steht uns leider nicht zur Verfügung.

neutral

Easily Confused

verfügbar vs vorrätig

Both mean available in a store.

Vorrätig is specific to stock; verfügbar is general.

Haben Sie das vorrätig?

verfügbar vs zugänglich

Both relate to getting something.

Zugänglich is about the path to the object; verfügbar is about the object's status.

Der Raum ist zugänglich.

verfügbar vs disponibel

Synonyms in formal contexts.

Disponibel is much rarer and sounds very academic or Swiss.

Das Guthaben ist disponibel.

verfügbar vs frei

Both mean available for people or seats.

Frei is more casual; verfügbar is more formal.

Bist du frei?

verfügbar vs abrufbar

Both used for digital data.

Abrufbar implies a technical action of 'calling up' the data.

Die Infos sind abrufbar.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] ist verfügbar.

Das Wasser ist verfügbar.

Ist [Subject] verfügbar?

Ist der Tisch verfügbar?

[Subject] ist ab [Time] verfügbar.

Ich bin ab Montag verfügbar.

Die [Adjective-en] [Noun-Plural] sind...

Die verfügbaren Plätze sind weg.

[Subject] ist nur [Prepositional Phrase] verfügbar.

Das ist nur online verfügbar.

[Subject] steht zur Verfügung.

Hilfe steht zur Verfügung.

Trotz [Genitive] ist [Subject]...

Trotz verfügbarer Mittel ist es schwer.

Die [Noun] der [Genitive] ist verfügbar.

Die Analyse der verfügbaren Daten ist fertig.

Word Family

Nouns

Verfügbarkeit

Verfügung

Verfügungsberechtigung

Verbs

verfügen

Adjectives

verfügbar

unverfügbar

verfügend

fügen

beifügen

einfügen

Hinzufügung

Gefüge

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both written and spoken German.

Common Mistakes

Ich bin bereit morgen. → Ich bin morgen verfügbar.
'Bereit' means you are ready to start an action right now. 'Verfügbar' means you have time in your schedule.
Das Buch ist verfügbar von Amazon. → Das Buch ist bei Amazon verfügbar.
In German, we use 'bei' for companies/stores where something is available.
Alle verfügbar Plätze sind weg. → Alle verfügbaren Plätze sind weg.
The adjective must be declined in the attributive position.
Das Essen ist verfügbar. → Das Essen ist fertig.
For food that is ready to eat, 'fertig' is the correct word.
Ich verfüge ein Auto. → Ich verfüge über ein Auto.
The verb 'verfügen' requires the preposition 'über' + Accusative.

Tips

Adjective Endings

Don't forget to decline 'verfügbar' when it's used as an attribute. Example: 'Die verfügbaren (plural) Plätze'.

Professionalism

Use 'verfügbar' in business emails to sound more professional than using 'frei' or 'da'.

The 'V' sound

Remember that 'v' in 'verfügbar' is pronounced like 'f'. Think of 'fast' or 'friend'.

Digital Context

When you see 'Update verfügbar' on your phone, it means a new version is ready for download.

Formal Closing

End your formal letters with 'Für Rückfragen stehe ich Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung'.

Verfügbar vs. Vorrätig

Use 'vorrätig' specifically for physical stock in a shop. Use 'verfügbar' for everything else.

Negation

'Nicht verfügbar' is the standard way to say something is out of stock or someone is busy.

Disposable Income

Learn the term 'verfügbares Einkommen' to understand German news about the economy.

The Verb Form

The verb 'verfügen' is often used with 'über' to mean 'to have at one's disposal'.

Visual Cue

Associate the word with a green 'Available' status on a chat app.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ver-FÜG-bar'. 'Fügen' sounds like 'figure'. If you can 'figure' out how to use it, it is 'verfügbar' (available).

Visual Association

Imagine a green light on a server or a 'VACANT' sign on a taxi. Both represent 'verfügbar'.

Word Web

Stock Time Online Free Ready Access Resource Schedule

Challenge

Try to use 'verfügbar' in three different contexts today: once for an object, once for a person, and once for a digital service.

Word Origin

Derived from the Middle High German verb 'vervüegen', which meant 'to arrange' or 'to bring about'.

Original meaning: To fit things together or to put them in order.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using 'verfügbar' for people in a way that sounds like they are objects (e.g., in a romantic context, 'frei' is better).

English speakers often use 'available' for everything. Germans might distinguish more between 'frei' (social), 'vorrätig' (shopping), and 'verfügbar' (formal/technical).

Hartmut Rosa's book 'Unverfügbarkeit' (about things we cannot control). Economic reports from the Bundesbank regarding 'verfügbares Einkommen'. IT Service Level Agreements (SLAs) in German companies.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping

Ist das Produkt verfügbar?
Nicht mehr verfügbar.
Wieder verfügbar.
In anderen Farben verfügbar.

Office/Work

Sind Sie morgen verfügbar?
Ich bin nicht verfügbar.
Termin verfügbar.
Ressourcen verfügbar.

Technology

Update verfügbar.
Server nicht verfügbar.
Online verfügbar.
Download verfügbar.

Travel

Zimmer verfügbar.
Flüge verfügbar.
Mietwagen verfügbar.
Plätze verfügbar.

Economics

Verfügbares Einkommen.
Mittel verfügbar.
Kapital verfügbar.
Rohstoffe verfügbar.

Conversation Starters

"Wann bist du diese Woche für ein Treffen verfügbar?"

"Ist das WLAN in diesem Café für Kunden verfügbar?"

"Glaubst du, dass Informationen heutzutage zu leicht verfügbar sind?"

"Welche Ressourcen sind für unser neues Projekt verfügbar?"

"Sind in deiner Stadt genügend bezahlbare Wohnungen verfügbar?"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe über einen Tag, an dem du für niemanden verfügbar warst. Was hast du gemacht?

Welche Technologien sind heute verfügbar, die es vor zehn Jahren noch nicht gab?

Wie wichtig ist dir dein verfügbares Einkommen im Vergleich zu deiner Freizeit?

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der ein wichtiges Dokument nicht verfügbar war.

Sollten alle wissenschaftlichen Daten für die Öffentlichkeit frei verfügbar sein? Warum?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Vorhanden' simply means that something exists or is present. 'Verfügbar' means that it is ready and free to be used. For example, a car might be 'vorhanden' (it exists in the garage), but not 'verfügbar' (someone else is using it).

Yes, but it sounds professional. 'Ich bin verfügbar' means 'I am available for work/tasks'. In a romantic or casual context, 'Ich habe Zeit' or 'Ich bin frei' is much more common.

You can say 'nicht verfügbar' or 'unverfügbar'. 'Nicht verfügbar' is more common in daily life and business.

Rarely. For food that is ready, use 'fertig'. For food in stock at a grocery store, use 'vorrätig' or 'da'.

It is a formal idiom meaning 'to be available'. It is very common in business letters: 'Ich stehe Ihnen für Fragen zur Verfügung' (I am available for questions).

Yes, if it is used before a noun (attributive use). For example: 'ein verfügbarer Platz'. If it comes after 'sein', it does not change: 'Der Platz ist verfügbar'.

It is an economic term for 'disposable income'—the money a household has left after paying taxes and social security.

Yes, especially in a digital or informational context, like 'online verfügbar' (accessible online).

Yes, it is considered a core word for the CEFR B1 level, essential for work and daily organization.

The noun is 'die Verfügbarkeit' (the availability).