verb
verprellen
alienate
Definition & meaning
The verb verprellen is used to describe the act of driving someone away, offending them, or alienating them through one's behavior, words, or decisions. It implies that a person was previously interested, loyal, or willing to cooperate, but due to a negative interaction, they have lost that connection or desire to participate.
- Social context: It is often used in business or politics when a company or a politician makes a decision that upsets their customer base or voters, causing them to turn away.
- Interpersonal context: It describes annoying or pushing away an individual, making them feel unwelcome or ignored.
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a regular, separable verb (ich verprelle, du verprellst, ich habe verprellt).
- Word origin: It is derived from the prefix ver- (indicating a negative outcome or process) and prellen. In Middle High German, prellen meant to strike, knock, or bounce. The modern meaning has shifted from physical striking to "hitting" someone figuratively, thereby causing them to distance themselves.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Seine unhöfliche Kritik verprellte viele Kunden.verb
His rude criticism alienated many customers.
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