Understanding “verbieten” in German
The verb verbieten is a frequently used word that means “to forbid” or “to prohibit”. It originates from the root “bieten”, meaning “to offer”, with the prefix “ver-” giving it a negating sense. “Verbieten” is commonly used in both spoken and written German, and can apply to a wide range of contexts, from informal to formal situations.
Examples of “verbieten”
- Die Eltern verbieten ihren Kindern, spät auszugehen. (The parents forbid their children from staying out late.)
- Das Rauchen ist hier verboten. (Smoking is forbidden here.)
- Ich kann dir das nicht verbieten. (I can’t forbid you from doing that.)
Verbieten is the more general, everyday term for forbidding something and is used in both official and casual situations. Its past participle is verboten, which is often seen on signs and notices.
Understanding “untersagen” in German
The verb untersagen also means “to prohibit” or “to forbid”, but it is more formal and is usually found in legal, administrative, or official contexts. “Untersagen” carries a slightly stronger sense of authority and often implies a written or officially sanctioned prohibition.
Examples of “untersagen”
- Die Behörde hat das Betreten des Geländes untersagt. (The authorities have prohibited entering the premises.)
- Das Mitbringen von Tieren ist ausdrücklich untersagt. (Bringing animals is expressly prohibited.)
- Das Gericht untersagt dem Angeklagten die Kontaktaufnahme. (The court forbids the defendant from making contact.)
Untersagen is less common in everyday speech and is usually reserved for formal documents, legal decisions, or official statements. Its use can sound rather bureaucratic or legalistic.
Comparing “verbieten” and “untersagen”
Level of Formality
Verbieten can be used in almost any situation, whether formal or informal. Untersagen, on the other hand, is almost exclusively used in formal or legal contexts. If you want your German to sound natural, use verbieten for everyday situations and reserve untersagen for official or legal language.
Authority and Tone
While both verbs indicate prohibition, untersagen usually implies a higher level of authority, such as a government, court, or official body, and often appears in written statements or notices. Verbieten can be used by anyone, including parents, teachers, or friends, and sounds less rigid.
Frequency of Use
Verbieten is much more common in everyday German conversation and writing. Untersagen is relatively rare outside of official contexts.
Which Should You Use?
As a German learner, especially when practicing with AI tools like Talkpal or in real-life conversations, you will most likely use verbieten in most situations. Use untersagen if you are dealing with legal texts, official documents, or when you want to sound particularly formal or bureaucratic.
Quick Reference Table
| Verb | Translation | Formality | Typical Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| verbieten | to forbid, to prohibit | neutral to formal | everyday, signs, spoken and written German |
| untersagen | to prohibit, to forbid (officially) | formal | legal, administrative, official documents |
Conclusion
Learning the subtle differences between similar German verbs like verbieten and untersagen will help you communicate more precisely and appropriately in different contexts. Remember: use verbieten for everyday situations and untersagen for formal, legal, or official prohibitions. For more tips on mastering German vocabulary and grammar, continue exploring resources at Talkpal – AI language learning blog, your partner in achieving fluency in German!
