verb
verbrechen
crime
Eine sehr schlimme Tat, bei der jemand bewusst gegen das Gesetz handelt und oft anderen schadet.
Definition & meaning
The word Verbrechen has two primary meanings in German:
- Criminal act: It refers to a serious offense against the law, a crime, or a felony. In the German legal system (Strafgesetzbuch), a Verbrechen is specifically defined as an unlawful act that is punishable by a minimum sentence of one year in prison.
- Atrocity or outrage: In a broader or metaphorical sense, it refers to a heinous act or an immoral deed that is considered deeply wrong, even if not strictly defined by a penal code (e.g., a "crime against humanity").
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a neuter noun (das Verbrechen). The plural form is identical to the singular (die Verbrechen).
- Word origin: It is composed of the prefix ver- (indicating a negative or destructive action) and the verb brechen (to break). Etymologically, it suggests "breaking" the law or "breaking" the social order.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- das Delikt (a general term for a punishable act, often less severe)
- die Straftat (the general legal term for any criminal offense)
- das Vergehen (a lesser criminal offense)
- das Fehlverhalten (misconduct or wrongdoing)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Er würde niemals ein Verbrechen begehen.verb
He would never commit a crime.
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