vereiteln

The German word "vereiteln" is a verb that means "to thwart" or "to foil". It involves stopping or preventing someone or something from achieving a goal. "Vereiteln" is derived from the German prefix "ver-" and the obsolete verb "eiteln", which is related to making something vain or in vain.

Similar words in German include:

• "verhindern" (to prevent)
• "durchkreuzen" (to thwart or to cross)
• "blockieren" (to block)

Differences:

• "verhindern" and "blockieren": These generally mean to prevent or block something from happening. "verhindern" is often used in a broader, more general sense than "vereiteln"; it isn't necessarily about actively thwarting a plan but can be about any form of prevention. "Blockieren" refers to physically or procedurally obstructing something.

• "durchkreuzen": This word specifically infers interference with plans or intentions, similar to "vereiteln," but "durchkreuzen" might feel stronger, emphasizing active and often strategic opposition.

"Vereiteln" carries a connotation of caused failure; actively working against something to ensure it does not succeed.