auseinandersetzen
deal · engage with · come to terms with
Sich gründlich mit einem Thema beschäftigen oder mit jemandem über ein Thema sprechen, oft um eine Lösung zu finden.
The German verb "auseinandersetzen" is a compound word made up of "auseinander" (which means "apart" or "separately") and "setzen" (which means "to set" or "to place"). When combined, "auseinandersetzen" primarily means "to deal with" or "to engage with" an issue or topic, often suggesting a thorough consideration or confrontation.
The verb can mean several things depending on the context:
- To explain or to elaborate on something in detail.
- To grapple with or to come to terms with a subject.
- To confront or to engage in a dispute or discussion.
Similar words in German include "diskutieren" (to discuss), "befassen" (to deal with), and "sich kümmern" (to take care of).
Differences in Usage:
- "Diskutieren" specifically implies an exchange of views or a discussion with others, usually verbally.
- "Befassen" also means to deal with, but does not imply the thoroughness or intensity that "auseinandersetzen" connotes.
- "Sich kümmern" means to take care of practical aspects or concerns, and is more about hands-on actions rather than intellectual or emotional engagement.
"Auseinandersetzen" often suggests a deeper, more thoughtful engagement with the subject compared to these other words.
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Examples
Wir setzen uns mit dem Thema intensiv auseinander.verb
We are dealing intensively with the topic.
Die Studenten setzten sich gestern lange mit der Frage auseinander.verb
The students engaged with the question for a long time yesterday.
Warum setzt ihr euch nur so ungern mit dieser schwierigen Diskussion auseinander?verb
Why are you so reluctant to engage with this difficult discussion?
Sie hat sich gestern stundenlang mit der neuen Theorie auseinandergesetzt.verb
She engaged with the new theory for hours yesterday.
Ich setze mich gerade mit meinem neuen Beruf auseinander.verb
I am currently coming to terms with my new profession.
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