verb
umtreiben
torment
The German verb "umtreiben" consists of the words:
- um (around)
- treiben (to drive, to push, to propel)
Meaning:
"umtreiben" means to torment, haunt, or keep someone busy/worried—it describes something that preoccupies or troubles someone persistently.
Similar words:
- quälen (to torment)
- plagen (to plague)
- befassen (to occupy oneself with)
Difference:
While quälen and plagen imply a stronger sense of suffering or torment, umtreiben often focuses more on restlessness, worry, or persistent preoccupation rather than intense pain.
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Examples
Die Sorgen treiben ihn um.verb
The worries are tormenting him.
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