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adverb

zugrunde

to ruin · at the foundation

Definition & meaning

The German word zugrunde (often written as two words: zu Grunde) functions primarily as an adverbial element. It is almost exclusively used in fixed expressions, most notably in the phrase zugrunde liegen (to form the basis of something) or zugrunde gehen (to perish or be ruined).

  1. In the context of zugrunde liegen: It means to serve as the foundation, basis, or underlying principle of something. For example, a theory that forms the basis of a scientific study.
  2. In the context of zugrunde gehen: It means to perish, to be destroyed, to collapse, or to fail completely. It implies a process of decay or the cessation of existence.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a prepositional phrase that has solidified into a single adverbial unit. It is composed of the preposition zu (to/at) and the dative form of the noun Grund (ground/reason/bottom).

  • Grammar: It is an indeclinable adverb. In modern German orthography, both the spelling zugrunde (as one word) and zu Grunde (as two words) are officially permitted, though zugrunde is increasingly preferred in compounds.
  • Etymology: The literal meaning is "to the ground" or "to the bottom." Just as one might hit "rock bottom" in English, zugrunde gehen implies falling to the bottom, while zugrunde liegen implies lying at the foundation or base of a structure.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms for zugrunde liegen (to form the basis):

  • basieren auf zugrunde
  • fundieren zugrunde
  • als Basis dienen zugrunde

Synonyms for zugrunde gehen (to perish/fail):

  • untergehen zugrunde
  • verderben zugrunde
  • scheitern zugrunde
  • kaputtgehen zugrunde

Antonyms:

  • For zugrunde liegen (to form the basis): abstrahieren zugrunde (to abstract from), losgelöst sein zugrunde (to be detached).
  • For zugrunde gehen (to perish): überleben zugrunde (to survive), erblühen zugrunde (to flourish/bloom), bestehen zugrunde (to exist/persist).

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Examples

Ohne Wasser gehen die Pflanzen zugrunde.adverb

Without water, the plants die (go to ruin).

Diesem Film liegt eine wahre Geschichte zugrunde.adverb

A true story lies at the foundation of this film.

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