verbverb
wachen
wake · watch
The German word "wachen" is a verb meaning "to be awake" or "to keep watch".
- Root word: wachen itself (no smaller parts); related to the adjective wach meaning "awake".
- Usage: It describes the act of staying awake or being vigilant, often used in contexts of guarding or keeping watch.
Similar words:
- aufwachen (to wake up)
- wachbleiben (to stay awake)
- bewachen (to guard/watch over)
Difference:
- "Wachen" emphasizes the state of being awake or watching attentively.
- "Aufwachen" is the process of waking up from sleep.
- "Bewachen" refers specifically to guarding.
- "Wachbleiben" focuses on the action of remaining awake over time.
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Examples
Ich wache jeden Morgen um 6 Uhr auf.verb
I wake up every morning at 6 o'clock.
Warum wachen die Kinder so oft mitten in der Nacht auf?verb
Why do the children wake up so often in the middle of the night?
Die Pfleger wachten still am Bett des kranken Mannes.verb
The caregivers kept watch silently at the sick man's bed.
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