Überarbeite

überarbeite is a German verb meaning to revise, edit, or rework something that has already been created. It combines the prefix über- with arbeiten (to work) and is used in contexts where an existing text, plan, product, or document is reviewed and improved. The general sense ranges from polishing a manuscript to updating a plan or software code.

Etymology and usage

The verb derives from the idea of working over something again to enhance or correct it. In English, the closest equivalent is rework or revise. The noun form is Überarbeitung (revision or update). In everyday German, überarbeiten is common in writing, publishing, education, and professional settings where accuracy, clarity, or currentness are important.

Grammar notes

The base form is überarbeiten; in present tense it yields ich überarbeite, du überarbeitest, er überarbeitet, etc. The form überarbeite can function as the first-person present form (ich überarbeite) or as the informal imperative (Überarbeite den Text!). For formal commands, one uses Überarbeiten Sie bitte den Antrag. The past participle is überarbeitet, and the noun Überarbeitung refers to the revision itself.

Domains of use

In journalism and academia, überarbeiten denotes revising drafts, footnotes, or arguments. In publishing, it covers line edits and stylistic improvements. In manufacturing or quality control, the term can describe rework of defective items. In software development, it can refer to reworking features or code.

Related terms

Bearbeiten (to edit or handle), korrigieren (to correct), and die Überarbeitung (the revision) are closely related. The concept is parallel to English rework or revision.