verb
abverlangen
demand
The German verb "abverlangen" means "to demand" or "to require something from someone" (especially effort, performance, or qualities).
- It is composed of "verlangen", which means "to demand" or "to request". The prefix "ab-" adds the nuance of requiring or extracting something from someone.
Similar words:
- fordern (to demand)
- verlangen (to request/demand)
- beanspruchen (to claim, to require)
Difference:
- abverlangen usually emphasizes securing something from someone, often implying a strenuous or challenging demand (e.g., "Die Arbeit verlangt viel Kraft ab" — The work demands a lot of strength).
- fordern and verlangen are more general for demands or requests without necessarily highlighting extraction or effort.
- beanspruchen focuses more on claiming or requiring regarding resources or rights.
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Examples
Kann dir diese Prüfung so viel Mut abverlangen?verb
Can this exam demand so much courage from you?
Der Marathon kann uns Geduld abverlangen.verb
The marathon can demand patience of us.
Die Verantwortung verlangte ihm alles ab.verb
The responsibility demanded everything of him.
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