aufmachen

Aufmachen is a German verb with the separable prefix auf- attached to machen, meaning to open. The core sense is to cause something that is closed to become open. Common objects are doors, windows, containers, and packaging. The verb is also used figuratively to mean starting or initiating something, such as a store, a discussion, or a project. Phrasal uses include expressions like die Augen aufmachen (to open one’s eyes) or ein Gespräch aufmachen (to start a conversation).

Grammar and usage: Aufmachen is a separable verb. In main clauses, the prefix is placed at the end: Ich mache die Tür auf. Du machst den Deckel auf. In the perfect tense it takes the participle with prefix: Ich habe die Tür aufgemacht. Imperative forms are Mach die Tür auf! Macht die Tür auf! In subordinate clauses the prefix remains attached to the verb: ..., dass er die Tür aufmacht.

Variants and context: The primary sense is physical opening, but aufmachen is also used for opening containers or packaging, and for starting operations, events, or businesses: Der Laden macht um 9 Uhr auf. Das Unternehmen hat eine neue Filiale aufgemacht. In more formal or neutral contexts, öffnen is often preferred, especially in written language or technical settings (z. B. die Tür öffnen).

Etymology and register: Aufmachen derives from auf- (opening) plus machen (to make). It is widely used in everyday speech across German-speaking regions; in formal writing, öffnen can be used as a synonym with a more neutral tone.