noun

das Üben, -

practice

Etwas immer wieder machen, um darin besser zu werden.

Definition & meaning

üben is a German verb that primarily translates to "to practice" or "to exercise." It refers to the act of performing an activity repeatedly or studying a subject to improve one's skill, knowledge, or proficiency.

To practice/rehearse: To repeat an action or skill to get better at it (e.g., practicing an instrument or a sport).
To exert/exercise: To apply something, such as influence, pressure, or criticism (e.g., "Kritik üben").
To train/drill: Engaging in systematic preparation for a specific task or challenge.

Grammar & Word origin

üben is a weak verb. Its conjugation follows the standard pattern:

Present tense: ich übe, du übst, er/sie/es übt...
Past tense (Präteritum): ich übte
Perfect tense: ich habe geübt

The word originates from the Old High German word ueben, which historically meant to work, to cultivate, or to perform an activity. It is etymologically related to the concept of taking pains or exerting effort toward a goal.