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A2 verb #2,500 más común 11 min de lectura

ablaufen

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos ablaufen en 30 segundos
Explicación ablaufen in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the verb 'ablaufen' primarily in the context of very basic, everyday situations. The most important meaning to grasp at this stage is 'to expire', specifically regarding official documents like passports or ID cards, and everyday items like food. A beginner needs to understand simple sentences such as 'Der Pass läuft ab' (The passport expires) or 'Die Milch ist abgelaufen' (The milk is expired). At this level, the focus is on recognizing the word and understanding its core meaning rather than mastering its complex grammar. Learners should practice identifying 'ablaufen' in written texts, such as signs in a supermarket or dates on a ticket. They also learn that it is a separable verb, meaning the 'ab' moves to the end of a simple sentence. While they might not yet fully grasp the perfect tense with 'sein', they can memorize the phrase 'ist abgelaufen' as a fixed expression for something that is no longer valid or good to eat. Vocabulary lists at this level will pair 'ablaufen' with words like 'Reisepass' (passport), 'Visum' (visa), 'Zeit' (time), and 'Datum' (date). The goal is basic comprehension and the ability to express a simple necessity, like needing to renew a document because it is expiring.
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At the A2 level, the understanding and usage of 'ablaufen' expand significantly. Learners are now expected to actively use the verb in various tenses, particularly the present and the perfect tense. They must internalize the rule that 'ablaufen' forms its perfect tense with 'sein' (e.g., 'Mein Visum ist abgelaufen'). This is a critical grammatical milestone. The contexts in which they use the word also broaden. Beyond passports and milk, A2 learners use 'ablaufen' to talk about time running out in general contexts, such as 'Die Zeit läuft ab' (Time is running out). They also begin to encounter the meaning of 'to proceed' or 'to happen' in simple narratives, such as asking 'Wie läuft das ab?' (How does that work/proceed?) when inquiring about a process like a doctor's appointment or a language test. Furthermore, the literal meaning of liquids draining ('Das Wasser läuft ab') is introduced, useful for describing household problems. A2 learners practice separating the prefix correctly in main clauses and keeping it attached in infinitive constructions. They are encouraged to use 'ablaufen' in short dialogues, role-playing situations at the immigration office or discussing grocery shopping, thereby solidifying its practical application in daily German life.
At the B1 level, learners achieve a more nuanced and flexible command of 'ablaufen'. They are now comfortable with its multiple meanings—expiring, draining, time running out, and proceeding—and can switch between them based on context. Grammatically, B1 students use 'ablaufen' confidently in subordinate clauses, remembering to keep the verb together at the end of the sentence (e.g., 'Ich muss mich beeilen, weil mein Parkticket gleich abläuft'). They also begin to use the past participle 'abgelaufen' as an adjective, applying correct declension endings (e.g., 'mit einem abgelaufenen Ausweis'). At this intermediate stage, 'ablaufen' becomes a key vocabulary word for discussing processes and events in more detail. They can describe how a meeting, a trip, or an event transpired ('Das Fest ist sehr gut abgelaufen'). They also learn to distinguish 'ablaufen' from similar verbs like 'auslaufen' (for contracts or liquids leaking) and 'verlaufen' (to get lost or to proceed). The vocabulary surrounding 'ablaufen' becomes more sophisticated, including terms like 'Frist' (deadline), 'Gültigkeit' (validity), and 'Ablaufdatum' (expiration date). B1 learners can write formal emails requesting renewals for documents that are about to expire, demonstrating practical, real-world competence.
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At the B2 level, the use of 'ablaufen' becomes highly natural and integrated into complex sentence structures. Learners use the verb to discuss abstract concepts, bureaucratic procedures, and professional workflows with precision. They can articulate detailed descriptions of how complex processes operate, using phrases like 'Der gesamte Prozess läuft vollautomatisch ab' (The entire process runs fully automatically). In professional contexts, they use 'ablaufen' to evaluate the success or failure of projects and meetings. They are also adept at using the noun form 'der Ablauf' (the process/procedure) interchangeably with the verb to vary their sentence structures. B2 learners understand subtle differences in register, knowing when 'ablaufen' is appropriate in a formal business meeting versus a casual conversation. They can discuss legal or contractual deadlines with ease ('Die Einspruchsfrist ist gestern um Mitternacht abgelaufen'). Furthermore, they can use idiomatic expressions or figurative language involving the concept of time running out. At this level, errors with the auxiliary verb 'sein' or separability are rare, and the focus shifts to stylistic elegance and precise vocabulary choice, ensuring that 'ablaufen' is used exactly where it fits best compared to its synonyms.
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At the C1 level, learners possess a near-native grasp of 'ablaufen'. They can employ the verb in highly academic, technical, or literary contexts without hesitation. They understand and use metaphorical extensions of the word. For instance, they can discuss psychological or social processes ('Diese Verhaltensmuster laufen unbewusst ab'). In legal and administrative discourse, they use 'ablaufen' to describe the exhaustion of legal remedies or the expiration of complex statutory periods. C1 users effortlessly integrate 'ablaufen' into complex grammatical structures, such as extended participial phrases ('der bereits vor Monaten abgelaufene Vertrag') or passive-like constructions. They are highly sensitive to collocations and idiomatic usage, knowing exactly which nouns pair naturally with 'ablaufen' in high-register German. They can also play with the word's meanings for rhetorical effect in writing or debates. The distinction between 'ablaufen', 'verfallen', 'erlöschen', and 'auslaufen' is crystal clear to them, and they select the most precise term for their specific rhetorical needs. At this advanced stage, 'ablaufen' is not just a vocabulary word to be translated, but a conceptual tool used to structure complex thoughts about time, validity, and procedural dynamics in fluent, sophisticated German.
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At the C2 level, the mastery of 'ablaufen' is absolute, reflecting the competence of an educated native speaker. Learners at this level can manipulate the verb across all registers, from the most colloquial slang to the highest forms of academic and literary prose. They understand obscure, historical, or highly specialized uses of the word. In literary analysis, they might discuss how a narrative sequence 'abläuft' to build tension. They can effortlessly comprehend and produce complex compound nouns derived from the verb, such as 'Ablaufdatum', 'Ablaufplan', or 'Ablaufsteuerung', and use them in highly technical discussions. C2 users can detect and employ irony or sarcasm using 'ablaufen', for example, commenting on a disastrous event with 'Das ist ja mal wieder toll abgelaufen' (That went brilliantly again). They have an intuitive feel for the rhythm and prosody of the word within a sentence, ensuring perfect intonation and stress. Their use of 'ablaufen' is characterized by complete grammatical accuracy, profound semantic depth, and stylistic brilliance, allowing them to express the most subtle nuances of expiration, procedural flow, and temporal limits with effortless precision.
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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

ablaufen en 30 segundos

  • Expiration of official documents, contracts, and perishable goods.
  • Time running out in sports, exams, or general deadlines.
  • The physical draining or flowing away of water and other liquids.
  • The progression, procedure, or unfolding of an event or meeting.
The German verb 'ablaufen' is a highly versatile and frequently used separable verb that carries multiple distinct meanings depending on the context in which it is utilized. At its core, 'ablaufen' combines the prefix 'ab-' (indicating separation, completion, or downward movement) with the root verb 'laufen' (to run or to walk). This combination creates a semantic field that revolves around the concepts of expiration, completion, draining, and procedural execution. Understanding 'ablaufen' is absolutely essential for learners aiming to achieve fluency, particularly from the A2 level onwards, as it frequently appears in both everyday conversations and formal bureaucratic contexts. The most common meaning of 'ablaufen' is 'to expire' or 'to become invalid'. This applies to official documents such as passports, ID cards, visas, and contracts, as well as to perishable goods like food and medicine. When a document's validity period comes to an end, it 'läuft ab'.
Expiration Context
Used for documents, contracts, and food items reaching their end date.

Mein Reisepass wird nächsten Monat ablaufen.

Another crucial meaning is 'to run out', specifically referring to time. In sports, exams, or any timed event, when the allocated time is exhausted, one says 'die Zeit ist abgelaufen'. This conveys a sense of finality and urgency.
Time Context
Used when a specific duration or deadline has been reached.

Die Frist für die Bewerbung ist gestern abgelaufen.

Furthermore, 'ablaufen' translates to 'to drain' or 'to flow away' when referring to liquids. If you pull the plug in a bathtub, the water 'läuft ab'. This physical, literal meaning is the most direct translation of the root components 'ab' (away/down) and 'laufen' (to run/flow).
Physical Draining
Used for water, fluids, or other liquids moving away from a surface or container.

Das Wasser in der Spüle kann nicht richtig ablaufen.

Lastly, 'ablaufen' is extensively used to describe how an event, process, or situation proceeds or happens. If you want to know how a meeting went or how a procedure works, you ask how it 'abläuft'. This is highly common in professional and organizational settings.

Können Sie mir erklären, wie der Anmeldeprozess abläuft?

Alles ist genau nach Plan abgelaufen.

To master this word, one must pay close attention to the context, as the translation into English will shift dramatically from 'expire' to 'drain' to 'proceed'. The versatility of 'ablaufen' makes it a cornerstone of intermediate German vocabulary, bridging the gap between simple physical actions and complex abstract concepts. By practicing these four primary meanings—expiration, time running out, draining, and proceeding—learners will significantly enhance their communicative competence and comprehension of native German speech.
Using the verb 'ablaufen' correctly requires a solid understanding of German verb mechanics, specifically separability and perfect tense formation. 'Ablaufen' is a separable verb (trennbares Verb). This means that in main clauses in the present and simple past tenses, the prefix 'ab' detaches from the root 'laufen' and moves to the very end of the clause. For example, in the present tense, you say 'Der Pass läuft morgen ab' (The passport expires tomorrow). The core verb 'läuft' takes the second position, while 'ab' acts as a bracket at the end.
Separability Rule
In main clauses, the prefix 'ab' goes to the end of the sentence.

Die Milch läuft in zwei Tagen ab.

When constructing the perfect tense (Perfekt) or past perfect tense (Plusquamperfekt), it is crucial to remember that 'ablaufen' requires the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be), not 'haben' (to have). This is because 'ablaufen' describes a change of state (becoming invalid) or a process of motion (water draining). The past participle is 'abgelaufen', where the 'ge-' is inserted between the prefix and the root.
Perfect Tense Formation
Always use 'sein' + 'abgelaufen'. Never use 'haben'.

Mein Visum ist leider schon abgelaufen.

In subordinate clauses (Nebensätze), the verb goes to the end and reconnects with its prefix. For instance, 'Ich weiß, dass der Vertrag bald abläuft' (I know that the contract expires soon). Here, 'abläuft' is written as one word at the end of the sentence.
Subordinate Clauses
The verb remains whole and is placed at the very end of the clause.

Er ärgert sich, weil die Frist abgelaufen ist.

When used as an infinitive with 'zu', the 'zu' is placed between the prefix and the root, forming 'abzulaufen'. This is common in sentences expressing intention or necessity.

Es droht, nächste Woche abzulaufen.

Additionally, 'ablaufen' can be used as an adjective in its participle form: 'der abgelaufene Pass' (the expired passport). In this attributive use, it takes standard adjective endings based on gender, case, and number.

Mit einem abgelaufenen Ausweis können Sie nicht reisen.

Understanding these grammatical nuances—separability, auxiliary verb choice, subordinate clause structure, infinitive forms, and adjectival use—will empower you to use 'ablaufen' accurately and confidently in any conversational or written context.
The verb 'ablaufen' permeates various aspects of daily life, bureaucratic procedures, and professional environments in German-speaking countries. One of the most frequent places you will encounter this word is in the context of bureaucracy and official documentation. Germany, Austria, and Switzerland are known for their structured administrative processes, and keeping track of validity dates is paramount. You will hear 'ablaufen' at the Bürgeramt (citizens' registration office), the Ausländerbehörde (immigration office), or at border control. Officials will inform you if your passport, ID card, visa, or residence permit is about to expire.
Bureaucracy
Used constantly regarding the validity of official documents and permits.

Ihr Aufenthaltstitel wird in zwei Wochen ablaufen.

Another ubiquitous context is the supermarket and the kitchen. In German, the expiration date on food is called the 'Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum' (MHD). When discussing whether food is still safe to eat, people frequently use 'ablaufen'. You will hear phrases like 'Der Joghurt ist abgelaufen' (The yogurt has expired) in almost every household.
Food and Groceries
Used to describe perishable goods that have passed their best-before date.

Wir müssen die Milch trinken, bevor sie abläuft.

In the realm of sports and games, 'ablaufen' is the standard term for time running out. Whether you are watching a football match (Fußballspiel) or playing a board game with a timer, the referee or players will announce when the time is up.
Sports and Timing
Used when a countdown finishes or a match duration ends.

Die reguläre Spielzeit ist abgelaufen.

In professional settings, such as offices and project management, 'ablaufen' is frequently used to describe processes, workflows, and events. Colleagues will discuss how a presentation went or how a new software implementation will proceed.

Das Meeting ist sehr produktiv abgelaufen.

Finally, in everyday household maintenance, you will hear 'ablaufen' in reference to plumbing. If a sink is clogged, a plumber (Klempner) or a family member will note that the water isn't draining.

Das Regenwasser muss durch dieses Rohr ablaufen.

By familiarizing yourself with these diverse contexts—bureaucracy, food safety, sports, business processes, and household plumbing—you will be well-prepared to understand and utilize 'ablaufen' naturally in your daily interactions.
When learning the verb 'ablaufen', students frequently encounter several common pitfalls that can hinder clear communication. The most prevalent mistake, particularly among native English speakers, involves the choice of the auxiliary verb in the perfect tense. Because the English translation 'has expired' uses the verb 'to have', learners instinctively translate this to 'hat abgelaufen'. However, in German, 'ablaufen' indicates a change of state (from valid to invalid) or a process of motion (water flowing away), which strictly requires the auxiliary verb 'sein'. Therefore, the correct form is always 'ist abgelaufen'.
Auxiliary Verb Error
Incorrectly using 'haben' instead of 'sein' in the perfect tense.

FALSCH: Mein Pass hat abgelaufen. RICHTIG: Mein Pass ist abgelaufen.

Another frequent error relates to the separability of the verb. Beginners often forget to detach the prefix 'ab-' in main clauses, leading to grammatically incorrect sentence structures. They might say 'Der Vertrag abläuft morgen' instead of placing the prefix at the end of the clause.
Separability Error
Failing to move the prefix 'ab' to the end of a main clause.

FALSCH: Die Zeit abläuft. RICHTIG: Die Zeit läuft ab.

Semantic confusion is also common. Learners sometimes confuse 'ablaufen' with 'verlaufen'. While both verbs share the root 'laufen', their meanings are distinct. 'Verlaufen' means to get lost (sich verlaufen) or to proceed in a specific manner (often used similarly to ablaufen in the context of events, but without the meaning of expiration). Using 'verlaufen' when you mean 'expire' will cause confusion.
Vocabulary Confusion
Mixing up 'ablaufen' (expire/drain) with 'verlaufen' (get lost/proceed).

FALSCH: Mein Visum ist verlaufen. RICHTIG: Mein Visum ist abgelaufen.

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the adjectival use of the past participle. When using 'abgelaufen' as an adjective before a noun, it must take the correct declension endings. Forgetting these endings or applying the wrong ones is a typical intermediate mistake.

Er hat einen abgelaufenen (not abgelaufen) Vertrag unterschrieben.

Lastly, mispronunciation of the prefix can occur. The 'a' in 'ab' should be pronounced clearly and shortly, and the stress of the word falls on this prefix ('AB-laufen'). Placing the stress on 'laufen' sounds unnatural to native speakers.

Achten Sie auf die Betonung: AB-laufen.

By consciously avoiding these common mistakes—using the correct auxiliary verb, respecting separability, distinguishing it from similar verbs, applying adjective endings, and stressing the prefix—you will significantly improve your accuracy.
Expanding your vocabulary involves understanding not just a single word, but its synonyms and related terms. 'Ablaufen' has several synonyms depending on the specific context in which it is used. When referring to the expiration of documents or validity, 'verfallen' is a strong synonym. 'Verfallen' often implies a loss of value or rights, such as a ticket or a coupon becoming void. 'Ungültig werden' (to become invalid) is a descriptive phrase that serves the exact same purpose in bureaucratic contexts.
Synonyms for Expiration
verfallen, ungültig werden, enden.

Das Ticket ist verfallen (similar to abgelaufen).

When discussing time running out, 'enden' (to end) or 'vorbeigehen' (to pass by) can be used, though 'ablaufen' carries a stronger sense of a predefined limit being reached. 'Auslaufen' is another highly similar verb, but it is typically used for contracts, subscriptions, or liquids leaking out of a container, rather than documents expiring.
Synonyms for Time/Contracts
auslaufen, enden, sich dem Ende zuneigen.

Mein Handyvertrag wird bald auslaufen.

In the context of an event proceeding or happening, 'stattfinden' (to take place), 'passieren' (to happen), and 'verlaufen' (to proceed) are excellent alternatives. 'Verlaufen' is particularly close in meaning when evaluating how an event went (e.g., 'Das Gespräch ist gut verlaufen' vs. 'Das Gespräch ist gut abgelaufen').
Synonyms for Proceeding
verlaufen, stattfinden, sich abspielen, vonstattengehen.

Die Operation ist reibungslos vonstattengegangen.

For the physical meaning of draining, 'abfließen' is a direct and precise synonym. If water is leaving a sink, both 'ablaufen' and 'abfließen' are perfectly acceptable and interchangeable.

Das Wasser muss schnell abfließen können.

Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the most precise word for your intended meaning. While 'ablaufen' is a fantastic multi-purpose tool, knowing when to swap it for 'verfallen', 'auslaufen', 'verlaufen', or 'abfließen' demonstrates a higher level of language proficiency and stylistic variation.

Er achtet darauf, wie die Dinge ablaufen und sich entwickeln.

This comparative approach to vocabulary building ensures that you not only memorize translations but truly grasp the semantic boundaries of German verbs.

How Formal Is It?

Nivel de dificultad

Gramática que debes saber

Separable Verbs (Trennbare Verben)

Perfect Tense with 'sein' (Perfekt mit sein)

Subordinate Clauses (Nebensätze mit trennbaren Verben)

Adjective Declension (Participles as Adjectives)

Infinitive Clauses with 'zu' (Infinitiv mit zu bei trennbaren Verben)

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Ejemplos por nivel

1

Mein Pass läuft ab.

My passport is expiring.

Separable verb in present tense.

2

Die Milch ist abgelaufen.

The milk has expired.

Perfect tense with 'sein'.

3

Wann läuft das Ticket ab?

When does the ticket expire?

Question word order.

4

Die Zeit läuft ab.

Time is running out.

Common phrase.

5

Das Wasser läuft ab.

The water is draining.

Literal physical meaning.

6

Der Ausweis läuft morgen ab.

The ID card expires tomorrow.

Time expression 'morgen'.

7

Ist der Joghurt abgelaufen?

Is the yogurt expired?

Yes/No question in perfect tense.

8

Mein Visum läuft bald ab.

My visa expires soon.

Adverb 'bald' used with verb.

1

Ich muss einen neuen Pass beantragen, weil mein alter abläuft.

I have to apply for a new passport because my old one is expiring.

Verb at the end in a 'weil' clause.

2

Wir haben keine Zeit mehr, die Uhr ist abgelaufen.

We have no more time, the clock has run out.

Metaphorical use of clock.

3

Können Sie mir sagen, wie der Test abläuft?

Can you tell me how the test proceeds?

Indirect question, verb at the end.

4

Das Medikament ist seit einem Jahr abgelaufen.

The medicine has been expired for a year.

Preposition 'seit' with dative.

5

Das Treffen ist sehr gut abgelaufen.

The meeting went very well.

Describing an event's progression.

6

Wenn die Frist abläuft, müssen wir Strafe zahlen.

If the deadline expires, we have to pay a fine.

Conditional 'wenn' clause.

7

Das Wasser in der Badewanne läuft sehr langsam ab.

The water in the bathtub is draining very slowly.

Adverb 'langsam' modifying the verb.

8

Er hat vergessen, dass sein Vertrag abläuft.

He forgot that his contract is expiring.

Subordinate 'dass' clause.

1

Der Vertrag läuft am Ende des Jahres automatisch ab.

The contract expires automatically at the end of the year.

Use of 'automatisch' and specific time phrase.

2

Ich möchte wissen, wie die Anmeldung genau abläuft.

I would like to know exactly how the registration process works.

Indirect question describing a procedure.

3

Leider ist die Garantie für dieses Gerät bereits abgelaufen.

Unfortunately, the warranty for this device has already expired.

Vocabulary: 'Garantie'.

4

Die Rettungsaktion ist genau nach Plan abgelaufen.

The rescue operation proceeded exactly according to plan.

Phrase 'nach Plan ablaufen'.

5

Sie dürfen mit einem abgelaufenen Führerschein nicht fahren.

You are not allowed to drive with an expired driver's license.

Participle used as an adjective with dative ending.

6

Das Regenwasser muss durch diesen Kanal ablaufen können.

The rainwater must be able to drain through this channel.

Modal verb construction with infinitive.

7

Wir müssen uns beeilen, unsere Zeit läuft gleich ab.

We have to hurry, our time is running out right now.

Adverb 'gleich' indicating immediate future.

8

Wie ist das Vorstellungsgespräch gestern abgelaufen?

How did the job interview go yesterday?

Perfect tense in a question about an event.

1

Die Frist zur Einreichung der Unterlagen ist unwiderruflich abgelaufen.

The deadline for submitting the documents has irrevocably expired.

Advanced adverb 'unwiderruflich'.

2

Der gesamte Produktionsprozess läuft mittlerweile vollautomatisch ab.

The entire production process now runs fully automatically.

Compound adverb 'vollautomatisch'.

3

Es ist faszinierend zu beobachten, wie solche chemischen Reaktionen ablaufen.

It is fascinating to observe how such chemical reactions proceed.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

4

Trotz der schwierigen Umstände ist die Konferenz reibungslos abgelaufen.

Despite the difficult circumstances, the conference went smoothly.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive; adverb 'reibungslos'.

5

Das Patent für diese Erfindung wird in Kürze ablaufen.

The patent for this invention will expire shortly.

Future tense with 'werden'.

6

Er hat die abgelaufenen Lebensmittel vorschriftsmäßig entsorgt.

He disposed of the expired food according to regulations.

Adjective declension in accusative plural.

7

Damit das Wasser besser ablaufen kann, wurde ein neues Rohr verlegt.

So that the water can drain better, a new pipe was laid.

Final clause with 'damit'.

8

Die Verhandlungen sind nach einem altbekannten Muster abgelaufen.

The negotiations proceeded according to a well-known pattern.

Phrase 'nach einem Muster ablaufen'.

1

Die diplomatischen Bemühungen sind im Sande verlaufen, da die gesetzte Frist fruchtlos abgelaufen ist.

The diplomatic efforts fizzled out, as the set deadline expired fruitlessly.

Complex sentence combining 'verlaufen' and 'ablaufen'.

2

Es obliegt der Geschäftsführung sicherzustellen, dass interne Audits standardisiert ablaufen.

It is incumbent upon management to ensure that internal audits proceed in a standardized manner.

Formal vocabulary 'obliegen', 'standardisiert'.

3

Nach Ablauf der Schonfrist wird das Abonnement kostenpflichtig, sofern es nicht vorher gekündigt wird.

After the grace period expires, the subscription becomes chargeable unless canceled beforehand.

Noun form 'Ablauf' used in a prepositional phrase.

4

Die kognitiven Prozesse, die bei dieser Entscheidungsfindung ablaufen, sind hochkomplex.

The cognitive processes that occur during this decision-making are highly complex.

Relative clause describing abstract processes.

5

Der Pachtvertrag ist de jure abgelaufen, wird aber de facto stillschweigend fortgesetzt.

The lease agreement has expired de jure, but is de facto being tacitly continued.

Legal terminology 'de jure', 'de facto', 'stillschweigend'.

6

Um Staus zu vermeiden, muss der Verkehr an dieser Kreuzung zügiger ablaufen.

To avoid traffic jams, the traffic at this intersection must flow more swiftly.

Metaphorical use for traffic flow.

7

Das Ultimatum lief ab, ohne dass eine der Konfliktparteien Einlenken signalisiert hätte.

The ultimatum expired without either of the conflicting parties signaling a willingness to yield.

Subordinate clause with 'ohne dass' and Konjunktiv II.

8

Die Verjährungsfrist für derartige Delikte ist nach deutschem Recht längst abgelaufen.

The statute of limitations for such offenses has long since expired under German law.

Legal term 'Verjährungsfrist'.

1

Die Epoche der unangefochtenen Hegemonie scheint unweigerlich abgelaufen zu sein.

The era of unchallenged hegemony seems to have inevitably expired.

Extended infinitive clause with perfect infinitive.

2

Wie das Prozedere im Einzelnen abläuft, entzieht sich meiner Kenntnis.

How the procedure unfolds in detail escapes my knowledge.

High-register phrasing 'entzieht sich meiner Kenntnis'.

3

Die Frist verstrich, die Sanduhr war abgelaufen, und das Schicksal nahm seinen unerbittlichen Lauf.

The deadline passed, the hourglass had run out, and fate took its relentless course.

Literary style, past perfect tense.

4

Man muss konstatieren, dass die Integration der neuen Systeme erstaunlich friktionslos abgelaufen ist.

One must state that the integration of the new systems proceeded astonishingly without friction.

Academic vocabulary 'konstatieren', 'friktionslos'.

5

Ein abgelaufenes Patent öffnet den Markt für Generika und stimuliert somit den Wettbewerb.

An expired patent opens the market for generics and thus stimulates competition.

Participle as adjective in an economic context.

6

Die zellulären Mechanismen, die bei der Apoptose ablaufen, sind Gegenstand intensiver Forschung.

The cellular mechanisms that occur during apoptosis are the subject of intensive research.

Scientific context.

7

Er inszenierte seinen Abgang präzise, sodass alles wie ein gut geschriebenes Theaterstück ablief.

He orchestrated his exit precisely, so that everything unfolded like a well-written play.

Simple past in a literary narrative.

8

Dass die Verhandlungen derart desaströs ablaufen würden, hatte selbst der größte Pessimist nicht antizipiert.

That the negotiations would proceed so disastrously, not even the biggest pessimist had anticipated.

Konjunktiv II in a 'dass' clause.

Colocaciones comunes

die Frist läuft ab
der Pass läuft ab
die Zeit läuft ab
das Wasser läuft ab
reibungslos ablaufen
nach Plan ablaufen
automatisch ablaufen
das Haltbarkeitsdatum läuft ab
der Vertrag läuft ab
ein Prozess läuft ab

Frases Comunes

Die Zeit ist abgelaufen.
Wie läuft das ab?
Alles ist nach Plan abgelaufen.
Mein Pass ist abgelaufen.
Das Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum ist abgelaufen.
Die Frist läuft morgen ab.
Das Wasser kann nicht ablaufen.
Der Vertrag läuft zum Jahresende ab.
Es ist reibungslos abgelaufen.
Die Uhr läuft ab.

Se confunde a menudo con

ablaufen vs verlaufen

ablaufen vs auslaufen

ablaufen vs weglaufen

Modismos y expresiones

"jemandem den Rang ablaufen (to outstrip/outdo someone)"
"sich die Hacken ablaufen (to run one's legs off/run around frantically)"
"wie am Schnürchen ablaufen (to run like clockwork)"
"das Wasser läuft ihm im Mund zusammen (not ablaufen, but related root)"
"die Zeit läuft uns davon (similar concept)"
"ein abgelaufener Schuh (an old/worn out shoe)"
"etwas läuft ins Leere (runs into nothingness)"
"die Frist verstreichen lassen (let the deadline pass)"
"auf Hochtouren ablaufen (to run at full speed)"
"nach Schema F ablaufen (to run according to a standard routine)"

Fácil de confundir

ablaufen vs

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note

While 'ablaufen' means 'to expire', it is not used for people dying. Use 'sterben' or 'versterben' for people.

Errores comunes
  • Using 'haben' instead of 'sein' in the perfect tense (e.g., saying 'Mein Pass hat abgelaufen').
  • Forgetting to separate the prefix in main clauses (e.g., saying 'Der Pass abläuft').
  • Confusing 'ablaufen' with 'verlaufen' (e.g., saying 'Mein Visum ist verlaufen').
  • Mispronouncing the word by stressing 'laufen' instead of 'ab'.
  • Failing to add adjective endings when using 'abgelaufen' before a noun (e.g., saying 'ein abgelaufen Pass').

Consejos

Always use 'sein'

Never say 'hat abgelaufen'. Always say 'ist abgelaufen'. This is the #1 mistake learners make.

Supermarket Survival

Check the 'Ablaufdatum' on products. If someone says 'Es ist abgelaufen', smell it first before throwing it away!

Stress the Prefix

Say AB-laufen, not ab-LAU-fen. The emphasis is heavily on the first syllable.

Bureaucracy Key Word

Memorize this word before going to the Ausländerbehörde (immigration office). It will save you a lot of confusion.

Den Rang ablaufen

Learn the phrase 'jemandem den Rang ablaufen'. It means to outdo someone or steal their thunder.

Adjective Endings

When writing 'der abgelaufene Pass', remember the 'e' at the end. It functions exactly like a normal adjective.

Asking for details

Use 'Wie läuft das ab?' as a polite way to ask someone to explain a procedure to you.

Plumbing Issues

If your sink is clogged, tell the landlord: 'Das Wasser läuft nicht ab.'

Verlaufen vs Ablaufen

Use 'ablaufen' for documents and 'verlaufen' for getting lost. Both can be used for events proceeding.

Visualizing Time

Picture an hourglass. The sand runs DOWN (ab) and flows (laufen). When it's empty, time is 'abgelaufen'.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a runner (laufen) running OFF (ab) a cliff. His time has EXPIRED, and the event PROCEEDS downwards.

Origen de la palabra

From Middle High German 'abloufen', Old High German 'abloufan'.

Contexto cultural

In meetings, asking 'Wie ist der Ablauf?' (What is the agenda/process?) is standard corporate etiquette.

Germans take expiration dates on IDs very seriously; traveling with an 'abgelaufener Ausweis' can lead to strict fines.

The phrase 'ist abgelaufen' is used daily in kitchens, though many Germans emphasize 'mindestens haltbar bis' (best before) doesn't mean toxic immediately.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Inicios de conversación

"Ist dein Reisepass noch gültig oder schon abgelaufen?"

"Weißt du, wie die Anmeldung für den Kurs abläuft?"

"Oh nein, die Milch ist abgelaufen. Kann man die noch trinken?"

"Wie ist dein Vorstellungsgespräch gestern abgelaufen?"

"Die Zeit läuft ab, wir müssen uns beeilen!"

Temas para diario

Beschreibe einen Tag, der genau nach Plan abgelaufen ist.

Was machst du mit Lebensmitteln, die gerade abgelaufen sind?

Erzähle von einer Situation, in der dir die Zeit abgelaufen ist.

Erkläre, wie ein typischer Morgen bei dir abläuft.

Hast du schon einmal vergessen, dass ein wichtiges Dokument abläuft?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

It always uses 'sein'. For example: 'Der Pass ist abgelaufen.' This is because it indicates a change of state or a process.

No, absolutely not. That would be highly inappropriate and incorrect. Use 'sterben' or 'versterben' for people.

'Ablaufen' is used for documents expiring, time running out, or events proceeding. 'Auslaufen' is used for liquids leaking from a container or for contracts/subscriptions phasing out.

Yes, it is. In a main clause in the present tense, the 'ab' goes to the end: 'Der Pass läuft morgen ab.'

The most common terms are 'das Ablaufdatum' or, specifically for food, 'das Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum' (MHD).

Yes, in a very literal, less common sense, like 'sich die Schuhe ablaufen' (to wear out one's shoes by walking), but the metaphorical meanings are much more frequent.

You can ask: 'Wie läuft das ab?' or 'Können Sie mir erklären, wie der Prozess abläuft?'

It means 'to go smoothly' or 'to proceed without a hitch'. It is a very common collocation in business and event planning.

Yes. 'Der Timer ist abgelaufen' or 'Die Zeit ist abgelaufen' are perfectly correct and natural.

The past participle is 'abgelaufen'. The 'ge' is placed between the prefix 'ab' and the root 'laufen'.

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