erfordern

Erfordern is a German verb meaning "to require" or "to necessitate." It expresses that a condition, situation, or action makes a further condition or resource necessary. The verb is transitive and takes a direct object that denotes what is required, for example time, skills, or documents.

Usage and nuance: In everyday language erfordern is somewhat formal and more common in written or official contexts. It emphasizes a concrete requirement arising from the circumstances rather than a general need. Synonyms include benötigen, verlangen, and bedingen, each with slightly different shades of meaning.

Etymology and related forms: The verb is formed with the prefix er- added to fordern (to demand). Related words are das Erfordernis (the requirement) and erforderlich (necessary). The past participle is erfordert, and it is used with haben to form the perfect: Es hat viel Geduld erfordert.

Examples: Die Situation erfordert entschlossenes Handeln. Das Projekt erfordert zusätzliche Mittel. Die Prüfung erfordert gute Englischkenntnisse. Diese Entwicklung erfordert eine erneute Bewertung der Pläne. In manchen Kontexten kann auch das Substantiv Erfordernis verwendet werden, um eine formale Voraussetzung zu benennen.