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wandeln
/ˈvan.dl̩n/
to transform
Die Stadt wandelt sich von einer Industrie- zu einer Dienstleistungsmetropole.
The city is transforming from an industrial to a service hub.
formal
to transform or change in form, nature, or appearance
Er wandelte seine Trauer in Tatkraft.
He transformed his grief into determination.
Often used in abstract or metaphorical contexts, not physical transformation.
literary
to walk or stroll leisurely
Sie wandelten durch den Park.
They strolled through the park.
More common in older or poetic language; modern usage prefers 'spazieren gehen'.
Law
technical
(in law) to amend or alter (a contract, law, etc.)
Der Vertrag wurde gewandelt.
The contract was amended.
Used in legal contexts to describe formal changes to documents.
Collocations
sich wandelnto change oneselfin etwas wandelnto transform into something
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'wandeln' in speech
While 'wandeln' is correct, native speakers often prefer 'sich verändern' or 'sich verwandeln' for transformation. Use 'wandeln' when emphasizing a gradual or profound change.
Gold Rule
Distinguish between transformation and physical movement
'Wandeln' implies a change in state or nature, not just walking. For physical movement, 'spazieren gehen' or 'laufen' are more appropriate.
Word Origin
From Middle High German *wandeln*, from Old High German *wentilōn*, derived from *wint* (wind), originally implying movement or change. Cognate with English 'wander' and Dutch 'wandelen'.
Usage Notes
In modern spoken German, 'wandeln' is less common than 'sich verändern' or 'sich verwandeln' for transformation. The verb is more frequently used in written or formal contexts. The legal sense is highly specialized.
Word Breakdown
wandel-
change, transformation
root-n
verb suffix
suffixDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch