entpuppen
turn out
Sich nach und nach als etwas Bestimmtes zeigen oder erkannt werden, oft anders als zuerst gedacht.
The German word "entpuppen" is a verb that means "to turn out" or "to reveal oneself." It is often used in contexts where something or someone is initially perceived in one way but eventually reveals a different nature or outcome. The word can be associated with the metaphor of a caterpillar turning into a butterfly, symbolizing transformation.
It is composed of the prefix "ent-" and the root "puppen," where "puppen" is related to "Puppe," meaning "doll" or "puppet." Here, "entpuppen" conveys the idea of uncovering or bringing to light.
Similar words in German include sich herausstellen (to turn out), offenbaren (to reveal), and zeigen (to show).
Difference:
- Herausstellen often implies clarity and emphasis on the result, whereas entpuppen suggests a change in perception or expectation.
- Offenbaren emphasizes the act of revealing something that was hidden.
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Examples
Das Gerücht entpuppt sich als wahr.verb
The rumor turns out to be true.
Sie entpuppten sich später als erfahrene Fachleute.verb
They later turned out to be experienced professionals.
Würde sich der Plan als Erfolg entpuppen?verb
Would the plan turn out to be a success?
Dieses Problem wird sich bald als Chance entpuppen.verb
This problem will soon turn out to be an opportunity.
Leider entpuppte sich das neue Handy als Fehlkauf.verb
Unfortunately, the new phone turned out to be a bad purchase.
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