Auseinanderbewegen

Auseinanderbewegen is a German verb that means to move apart or to separate two or more objects, parts, or groups from one another. It can be used literally, to describe a physical separation, or figuratively, to indicate a divergence of opinions, positions, or relationships. The word combines the prefix auseinander- (apart, separating) with the verb bewegen (to move).

Etymology and usage notes: The term is built from auseinander- and bewegen, conveying the idea of movement that leads to separation. It is commonly used in technical or mechanical contexts as well as in everyday language when describing changes in proximity or alignment. In many sentences it appears with the reflexive form sich auseinanderbewegen or with the subject moving apart: Die Zahnräder bewegen sich auseinander. Die Parteien bewegen sich politisch auseinander.

Typical contexts: In engineering and mechanics, auseinandebewegen can describe components that are shifted away from each other during assembly or disassembly. In science or everyday observation, it can describe molecules, objects, or structures that separate when conditions change. Figuratively, it is used to express that ideas, opinions, or relationships are drifting apart: Die Meinungen der Experten bewegen sich auseinander; die Beziehung bewegt sich auseinander.

Related terms and distinctions: Auseinandergehen and auseinanderdriften describe similar notions of separation but with different nuance or emphasis. Synonyms or related expressions include trennen, lösen, absetzen, and sich trennen. Auseinanderbleiben is often used to indicate remaining apart after an event, not actively moving apart.

See also: auseinandergreifen (to come apart), auseinanderdriften (to drift apart), auseinanderhalten (to keep apart).