verb
to choose, to vote (in an election)
A2
wählen means to choose or to vote (in an election). It's a regular weak verb using auxiliary haben (Perfekt: gewählt). Non‑reflexive, regular conjugation (Partizip: gewählt). Use depends on context: to choose = select; to vote = cast a ballot. Neutral register, common in politics and decision contexts.
Examples
Die Bürger wählten den Kandidaten, obwohl mehrere Experten seine Erfahrung bezweifelten.
The citizens elected the candidate, although several experts doubted his experience.
Viele Bürger wählen am Sonntag einen neuen Bürgermeister.
Many citizens vote for a new mayor on Sunday.
Ich wähle die Nummer.
I dial the number.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine ticking a box on a ballot and saying 'I choose this' while pronouncing wä(h)len
sounds like 'wail-en' — imagine choosing makes you 'wail' with joy
not applicable
Notes
Regular weak verb. Used both for making choices and for voting; context determines meaning.