Fiktiv vs. erfunden
While both fiktiv and erfunden describe things that are not real, the main difference lies in the level of formality and the specific context. fiktiv is a sophisticated term often used for literary characters or theoretical models, whereas erfunden is an everyday term that implies something was created, made up, or fabricated.
Fiktiv
B2This word is formal and is commonly used in literature, law, and business. It describes something that exists only in imagination or usually serves as a theoretical placeholder, such as a fictional character or a hypothetical value.
Sherlock Holmes ist eine fiktive Person.
(Sherlock Holmes is a fictional person.)
Wir rechnen hier mit einem fiktiven Gewinn.
(We are calculating with a hypothetical profit here.)
Der Roman spielt an einem fiktiven Ort.
(The novel takes place in a fictitious location.)
Erfunden
B1This comes from the verb meaning to invent and is used in casual conversation. It can refer to a story that was creatively written, but it is also strongly associated with lies, excuses, or things that are fake or fabricated.
Seine Entschuldigung war komplett erfunden.
(His excuse was completely made up.)
Das ist eine schön erfundene Geschichte für Kinder.
(That is a beautifully invented story for children.)
Diese Gerüchte sind frei erfunden.
(These rumors are entirely fabricated.)
Summary
Use fiktiv when you want to sound professional, discuss literature, or talk about theoretical scenarios. Use erfunden for everyday situations, especially when emphasizing that something (like a lie or a fairy tale) was actively thought up by a person.