verb

beheben

fix

Ein Problem oder einen Fehler so lösen, dass es nicht mehr da ist.

Definition & meaning

beheben is a transitive German verb meaning to remedy, fix, resolve, or eliminate a problem, defect, or difficulty.

It is used when something problematic is corrected or removed:

einen Fehler beheben — to correct an error
ein Problem beheben — to solve a problem
eine Störung beheben — to fix a malfunction
einen Mangel beheben — to remedy a deficiency

It usually refers to solving an existing problem rather than creating or repairing a physical object. For physical repairs, reparieren or reparieren is often more natural.

Grammar & Word origin

Infinitive: beheben
Third-person singular present: er/sie behebt
Simple past: er/sie behob
Past participle: behoben
Auxiliary verb: haben
It is a strong, transitive verb: Sie hat den Fehler behoben. — “She fixed the error.”

The verb consists of the prefix be- and heben , meaning “to lift.” Historically, the idea was to “lift away” or remove something problematic. In modern German, the meaning is idiomatic and usually concerns problems, faults, or deficiencies.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

lösen — to solve; broader than beheben and commonly used for problems, questions, and conflicts.
beseitigen — to eliminate or remove; emphasizes making a problem disappear.
korrigieren — to correct; mainly used for mistakes, errors, or incorrect information.
reparieren — to repair; generally used for damaged physical objects or technical equipment.
in Ordnung bringen — to put right or sort out; more colloquial and broadly applicable.