Erfahrungen

Erfahrungen is a German noun in the plural that denotes knowledge, skills, or practical wisdom gained through living, doing, or observing. It covers lessons learned, habits formed, and tacit know-how accumulated over time. The singular form is Erfahrung, while the plural Erfahrungen refers to a body of knowledge or multiple instances. The term is often contrasted with Erlebnis, which refers to a single event or experience.

The word derives from the verb erfahren, meaning to learn by experience or to become aware. In everyday language, common expressions include aus eigener Erfahrung (from personal experience), nach Erfahrung (according to experience), and Erfahrungen sammeln (to gain experience). In professional contexts, terms such as Berufserfahrung (professional experience) and Erfahrungswissen (tacit or practical knowledge) are widely used to indicate what someone has learned through work and practice rather than through theory alone.

Usage and nuance vary by domain. In research or formal writing, Erfahrungen can convey empirical or observed knowledge, but it is often supplemented by Erkenntnisse (insights) or Forschungsergebnisse (research results). In colloquial speech, Erfahrungen emphasizes practical know-how and real-world competence. The concept can describe experiences of individuals or groups, for example kulturelle Erfahrungen (cultural experiences) or betriebliche Erfahrungen (operational experiences).

See also: related terms such as Erfahrung, Erfahrungswissen, Erfahrungen sammeln. In English, Erfahrung translates as experience, with plural Erfahrungen referring to experiences or experience-based knowledge.