verbauen
build over
Etwas so einbauen oder hinstellen, dass es den Platz blockiert oder die Sicht versperrt.
The German word "verbauen" is a verb consisting of the prefix "ver-" and the root "bauen" (which means "to build").
- bauen = to build, construct
- verbauen literally means "to build in" or "to construct incorrectly/obstructively".
Meaning:
"Verbauen" can mean:
- To construct or install something (sometimes obstructively or poorly).
- To block or spoil a view or access by building.
- To ruin or spoil potential (e.g., "sich die Chancen verbauen" = to ruin one's chances).
Similar words:
- blockieren (to block)
- verstellen (to obstruct, to put in the way)
- bebauen (to build upon, cultivate land)
Difference:
While "verbauen" often implies building that causes obstruction or spoiling, "blockieren" is purely about blocking, and "bebauen" focuses on building/use of land without the negative connotation. "Verstellen" generally refers to obstructing something’s view or passage without construction necessarily involved.
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Examples
Er möchte die Terrasse nicht komplett verbauen.verb
He does not want to completely build over the terrace.
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