anmachen

/ˈanˌmaxn̩/
verbIntermediate
informal

to turn on (a device, machine, or light)

Mach bitte das Licht an.

Please turn on the light.

informal

to start (an engine, fire, or process)

Er hat den Motor angemacht.

He started the engine.

slang

to provoke or annoy someone (slang)

Hör auf, mich anzumachen!

Stop provoking me!

slang

to flirt with someone (slang)

Er hat die ganze Nacht versucht, sie anzumachen.

He tried to flirt with her all night.

Collocations

das Licht anmachento turn on the lightden Fernseher anmachento turn on the TVjemanden anmachento provoke someone

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

jemanden anmachenphrasal verb
to flirt with someone

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

Always consider the context when using 'anmachen,' as its meaning can vary significantly.

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

In formal or technical writing, prefer 'einschalten' for 'to turn on' to avoid ambiguity.

📖Word Origin

From the prefix 'an-' (on, to) and 'machen' (to make or do). The verb combines the idea of initiating an action or state.

📝Usage Notes

The meaning of 'anmachen' depends heavily on context. In technical contexts, it means 'to turn on,' while in informal or slang contexts, it can mean 'to provoke' or 'to flirt.'

Word Breakdown

an-
on, to
prefix
+
machen
to make or do
root
Noted on May 2, 2026DEEN