Lehren

Lehren, in German, is a verb that primarily translates to "to teach." It encompasses the act of imparting knowledge, skills, or understanding to someone else. The verb "lehren" suggests a more formal or systematic instruction than simply "zeigen" (to show) or "erklären" (to explain).

Grammatical Aspects:

"Lehren" is a weak verb, meaning its past participle is formed with "-t" (gelehrt). Its principal parts are: lehren, lehrte, hat gelehrt.

Usage and Nuances:

• Formal Instruction: "Lehren" is often used in the context of academic settings, professional training, or formal apprenticeships. A professor might lehren a course, or a master craftsman might lehren an apprentice a trade.
• Moral or Ethical Teaching: "Lehren" can also carry connotations of imparting moral or ethical principles.
• Religious Context: In religious contexts, "lehren" can refer to the teaching of doctrines or scriptures.
• Distinction from "lernen": It is crucial to distinguish "lehren" (to teach) from "lernen" (to learn).

Related Terms:

• Lehrer: Teacher (masculine)
• Lehrerin: Teacher (feminine)
• Lehre: Teaching, doctrine, apprenticeship
• Lehrbuch: Textbook
• Lehrplan: Curriculum

Common Phrases:

• Jemanden etwas lehren: To teach someone something.
• Eine Lehre ziehen (aus etwas): To learn a lesson (from something).