verb

trotzen

defy

Sich gegen etwas oder jemanden stellen und nicht nachgeben, auch wenn es schwierig ist.

The German word "trotzen" is a verb meaning "to defy," "to resist," or "to defy something despite difficulties."

  • It is not composed of smaller meaningful parts but is an independent verb.
  • Similar words include:
    • widerstehen (to resist)
    • sich widersetzen (to oppose)
    • sich gegen etwas stellen (to stand against something)

Difference:

  • Trotzen emphasizes defying or enduring against adversity, often with a sense of stubbornness or courage.
  • Widerstehen is more about resisting influence or temptation.
  • Sich widersetzen implies active opposition to authority or commands.
  • Sich gegen etwas stellen refers to explicitly standing against something, possibly more confrontational.

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Examples

Kinder trotzen oft den Regeln.verb

Children often defy the rules.

Die Menschen trotzen der Kälte und gehen trotzdem spazieren.verb

The people defy the cold and still go for a walk.

Kinder trotzen jeder Herausforderung mit Mut.verb

Children defy every challenge with courage.

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