bereichert

Bereichert is a nonstandard spelling associated with the German verb bereichern. The standard verb bereichern means to enrich, to add value, or to enhance something. In ordinary usage, the present tense third-person singular form is bereichert, and the past participle used with auxiliary hat is bereichert as well. For example: Der Beitrag bereichert die Debatte. Der Bericht hat die Diskussion bereichert.

Etymology and grammar

Bereichern is formed with the prefix be- and the root relating to reich, meaning rich. The sense extension from “to make rich” to “to enrich, to enhance” is common in German. Grammatically, bereichern is a regular weak verb. Infinitive: bereichern; present: ich bereichere, du bereicherst, er bereichert; past participle: bereichert; perfect: hat bereichert.

Usage and nuance

Bereichern is used when something adds value beyond its original state. It can refer to information, experiences, perspectives, resources, or capabilities that improve a person, a group, a work of art, a project, or a discussion. In formal and informal contexts alike, phrases such as “das Verständnis bereichern,” “die Diskussion bereichern,” or “die Daten bereichern das Modell” are common.

Spelling note

The form bereichert is not standard in modern German. It is typically considered a misspelling or a confusion with the noun Bereich (area). Correct usage relies on bereichern and its present participle bereichert (e.g., die Bereicherung means enrichment).

See also

Bereicherung, bereichern, enrich (concept).