entfachen

Entfachen is a German verb meaning to ignite, kindle, or spark something into existence, literally or figuratively. In English translations the word corresponds to ignite, kindle, spark, or inflame. It usually denotes the initiation or revival of a flame, but can also describe the arousal of interest, feelings, or tensions.

Etymology and form: The verb is formed with the prefix ent- attached to the root fachen, yielding the sense of bringing a flame to life. It is established in standard German and used in both physical and figurative contexts. The typical tenses follow regular conjugation: present entfachen, preterite entfachte, and perfect entfacht (as in hat entfacht).

Usage: Entfachen is a transitive verb and generally used with a direct object. Examples include: „ein Feuer entfachen“ (to light a fire) and „Der Funke entfachte das Feuer“ (The spark ignited the fire). In the perfect tense one says „hat entfacht“ (e.g., „Er hat ein Feuer entfacht“).

Figurative use: Beyond fires, entfachen is common for sparking non-physical phenomena, such as „Neugier entfachen“ (to arouse curiosity), „Begeisterung entfachen“ (to ignite enthusiasm), or „einen Konflikt entfachen“ (to spark a conflict). The verb often implies an initial ignition or intensification rather than long-lasting burning, and it is sometimes contrasted with entzünden, which is also used for ignition but with slightly different nuances.

Noun: The related noun Entfachung denotes ignition, arousal, or incitement.

See also: Entfachung; related verbs such as entzünden and entfesseln.