vermochte
able · be able
Vergangenheitsform von „können“ im Sinn von: jemand war in der Lage, etwas zu tun.
The German word "vermochte" is a verb form in the simple past (Imperfekt) of "vermochten," which means "to be able" or "to have the ability" (the past tense translates to "could" or "was able to"). It originates from the verb "vermochten," deriving from the root "mögen," which relates to capacity or capability.
Similar words in German include "konnte" (could) from the verb "können," which also means "to be able to" or "can."
The difference between "vermochte" and "konnte" typically lies in the emphasis: "vermochte" might convey a sense of achieving something or overcoming an obstacle, while "konnte" is often more straightforward, indicating mere ability. "Vermochte" can have a somewhat formal or literary connotation compared to "konnte."
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Examples
Er vermochte nicht, sich zu bewegen.other
He was not able to move.
Niemand vermochte die schwierige Aufgabe zu lösen.other
No one was able to solve the difficult task.
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