verfallen
decay · deteriorate · dilapidated
Etwas wird langsam schlechter oder zerstört, weil es nicht gepflegt wird.
The German word "verfallen" is a verb that means "to decay" or "to deteriorate". It is often used to describe buildings or structures that are in disrepair or neglected. "Verfallen" can also mean "to lapse", as in falling into disuse, or "to expire", like a contract or legal agreement ending.
Similar words in German include "zerfallen" (to crumble), "verschlechtern" (to worsen), and "abnutzen" (to wear out).
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Examples
Das Schloss verfällt seit Jahren.verb
The castle has been decaying for years.
Dieses Haus wird bald verfallen.verb
This house will soon deteriorate.
Der alte Tempel ist fast verfallen.adjective
The old temple has almost decayed.
Das Gebäude wird bald verfallen.verb
The building will soon decay.
Wir wohnen neben einer verfallenen Fabrik.adjective
We live next to a dilapidated factory.
Die verfallene Hütte bietet keinen Schutz vor Regen.adjective
The dilapidated hut offers no protection from the rain.
Im Garten steht ein verfallener Schuppen.adjective
There is a dilapidated shed in the garden.
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