verzeihen 30秒で
- Verzeihen means to forgive or pardon.
- It involves letting go of anger after someone wrongs you.
- Used in apologies and reconciliation.
- Requires dative case for the person forgiven.
The German verb verzeihen translates to 'to forgive' or 'to pardon' in English. It's a fundamental word used when someone has done something wrong, and the offended party chooses not to hold it against them or to let go of the anger or resentment. This act of forgiveness can be a powerful gesture, signifying reconciliation and the desire to move past a conflict or mistake. It's a word that touches upon interpersonal relationships, ethics, and emotional healing.
- Etymology
- The word 'verzeihen' is derived from the older German verb 'zeihen', which meant 'to accuse' or 'to blame'. The prefix 'ver-' often indicates a reversal or completion of an action. Thus, 'verzeihen' literally suggests 'to un-accuse' or 'to release from blame', which perfectly aligns with the meaning of forgiveness.
- Core Concept
- At its heart, verzeihen involves letting go of a grievance. It's a conscious decision to move beyond hurt, anger, or a desire for retribution. This can apply to minor slights or more significant offenses, depending on the context and the relationship between the individuals involved.
Ich bitte dich, mir diesen Fehler zu verzeihen.
The act of verzeihen is crucial in maintaining social harmony and healthy relationships. It allows for repair after damage has been done, whether it's a personal relationship, a professional setting, or even on a societal level. In religious contexts, forgiveness is often a central tenet. In everyday life, it might be as simple as saying 'Ich verzeihe dir' (I forgive you) after a friend accidentally breaks something of yours, or a more profound expression of letting go after a significant betrayal.
Consider the nuances: 'verzeihen' implies a more personal and emotional release of blame. It's about acknowledging the wrong but choosing to move forward without carrying the burden of resentment. This is distinct from simply forgetting or excusing the behavior. Forgiveness is an active choice to release the negative energy associated with the offense.
- Situations for Use
- You might hear or use 'verzeihen' when someone apologizes sincerely for a mistake, a broken promise, or hurtful words. It's also used when a person acknowledges their wrongdoing and seeks to be absolved. The response to an apology often involves either accepting it and offering forgiveness ('Ich verzeihe dir') or, in some cases, stating that forgiveness is not possible or not yet offered.
In legal or formal settings, the concept of pardon might be more relevant, but in personal interactions, 'verzeihen' captures the essence of letting go of personal offense. It requires empathy and a willingness to understand, even if the actions were wrong. It's a cornerstone of healthy human interaction, promoting peace and understanding.
- Beyond Apologies
- While often linked to apologies, 'verzeihen' can also be used in situations where someone acknowledges a wrong without a direct apology, or when a person simply decides to move on from a past hurt. It emphasizes the internal state of the forgiver as much as the act towards the offender.
The opposite of verzeihen could be holding a grudge, seeking revenge, or refusing to let go of anger. Therefore, understanding 'verzeihen' is key to grasping concepts of conflict resolution, reconciliation, and emotional maturity in the German language.
Using verzeihen correctly involves understanding its conjugation and the grammatical cases it typically governs. As a verb, it changes its form depending on the subject, tense, and mood. The most common form is in the present tense, where it follows standard German verb conjugation rules.
- Present Tense Conjugation
- In the present tense, 'verzeihen' conjugates as follows:
- ich verzeihe
- du verzeihst
- er/sie/es verzeiht
- wir verzeihen
- ihr verzeiht
- sie/Sie verzeihen
Notice that 'ich', 'wir', and 'sie/Sie' use the base form of the verb, while 'du', 'er/sie/es', and 'ihr' have distinct endings.
Ich verzeihe dir, dass du zu spät gekommen bist.
- Past Tense (Perfekt)
- The past participle of 'verzeihen' is verziehen. In the Perfekt tense (present perfect), it is used with the auxiliary verb 'haben':
- Ich habe dir verziehen. (I have forgiven you.)
- Hast du ihm verziehen? (Have you forgiven him?)
- Sie hat mir nicht verziehen. (She has not forgiven me.)
The direct object of 'verzeihen' (the person or thing being forgiven) typically takes the dative case. This is a crucial grammatical point. For example, 'dir' (you, dative) is used when forgiving 'you'.
Können Sie mir verzeihen?
- Forgiving Something
- When forgiving a specific action or mistake, the preposition 'für' (for) is often used, followed by the accusative case:
- Ich verzeihe dir für deinen Fehler. (I forgive you for your mistake.)
- Er verzieh ihr für die Verspätung. (He forgave her for the lateness.)
Alternatively, a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass' (that) can be used:
- Ich verzeihe dir, dass du so laut warst. (I forgive you that you were so loud.)
In imperative mood (commands), it can be used to ask for forgiveness:
- Verzeih mir! (Forgive me! - informal singular 'du')
- Verzeiht mir! (Forgive me! - informal plural 'ihr')
- Verzeihen Sie mir! (Forgive me! - formal 'Sie')
The infinitive form 'verzeihen' can also appear in modal verb constructions:
- Ich kann dir nicht verzeihen. (I cannot forgive you.)
- Wirst du mir jemals verzeihen? (Will you ever forgive me?)
Mastering these structures will allow you to express forgiveness or seek it effectively in German.
The verb verzeihen is a common and important word in everyday German conversation, literature, and media. You'll encounter it in a variety of contexts, reflecting its significance in human relationships and social interactions.
- Everyday Conversations
- In casual settings, 'verzeihen' often follows an apology. Imagine a scenario where someone accidentally bumps into you or spills a drink: a common exchange might be:
Person A: 'Entschuldigung!' (Excuse me! / Sorry!)
Person B: 'Schon gut. Ich verzeihe dir.' (It's okay. I forgive you.)
Or, if the offense is more significant:
Person A: 'Es tut mir wirklich leid, was ich gesagt habe. Ich hoffe, du kannst mir verzeihen.' (I am truly sorry for what I said. I hope you can forgive me.)
Person B: 'Ich versuche es. Es war nicht leicht, aber ja, ich verzeihe dir.' (I'm trying. It wasn't easy, but yes, I forgive you.)
Bitte verzeihen Sie mir meinen Fehler.
- Literature and Film
- In novels, plays, and movies, 'verzeihen' often plays a pivotal role in plot development, especially in dramas dealing with conflict, betrayal, and reconciliation. Characters might struggle with the decision to forgive, or a climactic scene might involve the act of forgiveness itself. For instance, a character might reflect:
'Nach all dem, was passiert ist, frage ich mich, ob ich ihm jemals verzeihen kann.' (After all that has happened, I wonder if I can ever forgive him.)
Or a dialogue might reveal a past act of forgiveness:
'Sie hat ihm damals verziehen, obwohl es schwer war.' (She forgave him back then, even though it was difficult.)
- Religious and Philosophical Contexts
- Forgiveness is a significant theme in religious teachings, and 'verzeihen' is the word used in German translations of religious texts. You might hear it in sermons or discussions about morality and ethics.
'Gott verzeiht uns unsere Sünden.' (God forgives us our sins.)
'Wir sollen unseren Nächsten verzeihen, so wie wir selbst vergeben werden wollen.' (We should forgive our neighbor as we wish to be forgiven ourselves.)
- Formal Settings
- While 'verzeihen' is used in formal contexts, it often carries a more serious weight. In official apologies or statements, it might be used to express regret and seek absolution. For example, a politician might say:
'Ich bitte die Bevölkerung um Entschuldigung und hoffe, dass sie mir verzeihen kann.' (I apologize to the public and hope that they can forgive me.)
Listening to German podcasts, watching German TV shows or movies, and reading German books are excellent ways to hear 'verzeihen' in natural contexts. This will help you internalize its usage and emotional impact.
While verzeihen is a straightforward verb meaning 'to forgive,' learners can sometimes make mistakes related to its grammar, usage, or the nuance of its meaning compared to similar words.
- Incorrect Case Usage
- The most common grammatical error involves the case of the person being forgiven. 'Verzeihen' governs the dative case for the person or people being forgiven. Learners might incorrectly use the accusative case.
Incorrect: Ich verzeihe dich. (I forgive you - accusative)
Correct: Ich verzeihe dir. (I forgive you - dative)
Similarly, when forgiving a group:
Incorrect: Wir verzeihen euch. (We forgive you all - accusative)
Correct: Wir verzeihen euch. (We forgive you all - dative)
Remember: The object of forgiveness is in the dative case.
Er hat ihr nicht verziehen.
- Confusing 'verzeihen' with 'entschuldigen'
- 'Entschuldigen' means 'to excuse' or 'to apologize'. While related, they are not interchangeable. 'Entschuldigen' is often used to ask for an excuse or to offer one, whereas 'verzeihen' is about the act of pardoning or letting go of resentment.
You apologize ('sich entschuldigen') for something, and someone else might forgive ('verzeihen') you for it.
Correct sequence:
Person A: 'Ich entschuldige mich für mein Verhalten.' (I apologize for my behavior.)
Person B: 'Ich verzeihe dir.' (I forgive you.)
It would be incorrect to say: 'Ich entschuldige dich für deinen Fehler' (I excuse you for your mistake) when you mean 'I forgive you'.
- Overuse or Misapplication
- 'Verzeihen' implies a significant act of letting go of hurt or anger. Using it for very minor inconveniences might sound insincere or overly dramatic. For trivial matters, simpler expressions like 'Macht nichts' (It's nothing) or 'Kein Problem' (No problem) are more appropriate.
Appropriate for minor issue:
'Oh, du hast meinen Stift genommen? Kein Problem.' (Oh, you took my pen? No problem.)
Potentially overly dramatic for minor issue:
'Ich verzeihe dir, dass du meinen Stift genommen hast.' (I forgive you for taking my pen.)
- Incorrect Past Participle
- When forming the Perfekt tense, learners might use the wrong past participle. The correct past participle for 'verzeihen' is 'verziehen'.
Incorrect: Ich habe verzeiht. (I have forgiven - using wrong participle)
Correct: Ich habe verziehen. (I have forgiven)
Being aware of these common errors will help you use 'verzeihen' more accurately and confidently.
While verzeihen is the primary word for 'to forgive,' German offers several related terms and phrases that convey similar or nuanced meanings. Understanding these distinctions will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
- Entschuldigen (to excuse, to apologize)
- Meaning: 'Entschuldigen' is multifaceted. As a verb, 'sich entschuldigen' means 'to apologize'. As a transitive verb, 'etwas entschuldigen' can mean 'to excuse something' or 'to pardon something' in a more formal or less personal sense than 'verzeihen'.
Difference: 'Entschuldigen' is about seeking or granting an excuse, or the act of apologizing itself. 'Verzeihen' is the emotional and personal act of letting go of resentment after an offense.
Example:
Sie entschuldigte sich für ihr Zuspätkommen. (She apologized for her lateness.)
Ich kann dir das nicht verzeihen. (I cannot forgive you for that.)
Der Richter entschuldigte den Angeklagten für geringfügige Vergehen. (The judge excused the defendant for minor offenses.)
Wir müssen uns entschuldigen, bevor wir um Verzeihung bitten können.
- Vergeben (to give, to forgive)
- Meaning: 'Vergeben' literally means 'to give away' or 'to grant'. In the context of interpersonal relations, it can also mean 'to forgive', often carrying a slightly more formal or profound connotation than 'verzeihen', especially in religious contexts.
Difference: While 'vergeben' can be a synonym for 'verzeihen', it's less common in everyday spoken German for simple forgiveness. 'Vergeben' often implies a complete release and moving on, sometimes with a sense of grace or divine forgiveness.
Example:
Er hat ihr ihre Fehler vergeben. (He forgave her her mistakes.)
Gott vergibt die Sünden. (God forgives sins.)
- Nachsehen (to overlook, to indulge)
- Meaning: 'Nachsehen' can mean 'to look after', but in the context of interpersonal relations, it means 'to overlook' a mistake, 'to indulge', or 'to let something slide'.
Difference: This is a less intense form of 'verzeihen'. It implies overlooking a minor fault or inconvenience without necessarily harboring resentment, but it doesn't carry the same weight of emotional release as 'verzeihen'. It's more about tolerating or ignoring a small issue.
Example:
Ich sehe dir diesen kleinen Fehler gerne nach. (I'm happy to overlook this small mistake for you.)
Der Lehrer sah dem Schüler das einmalige Zuspätkommen nach. (The teacher overlooked the student's one-time lateness.)
- Phrases expressing forgiveness
- Often, forgiveness is expressed through phrases rather than single verbs:
* 'Ich vergebe dir.' (I forgive you - using 'vergeben')
* 'Ich sehe darüber hinweg.' (I'll overlook it / I'll let it go.)
* 'Es ist gut.' (It's okay / It's fine - often implies forgiveness)
* 'Das ist vergessen.' (That's forgotten - implies forgiveness)
Choosing the right word depends on the context, the severity of the offense, and the desired level of formality and emotional depth.
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
The prefix 'ver-' in German verbs often indicates a reversal, completion, or sometimes a negative alteration of the base verb's meaning. In 'verzeihen', it signifies the reversal of 'zeihan' (to accuse), moving from accusation to absolution.
発音ガイド
- Pronouncing the initial 'v' like in English 'van'. It should be an 'f' sound.
- Mispronouncing the 'ei' diphthong.
- Pronouncing the final 'ch' too hard, like a 'k'.
難易度
The word itself is introduced early (A1). Understanding its nuances and grammatical cases requires practice, but the basic meaning is accessible. Complex sentence structures involving 'verzeihen' can increase difficulty.
Applying the correct dative case and choosing the right context can be challenging for learners. Overuse or misapplication can occur.
Pronunciation needs attention. Expressing forgiveness or asking for it requires confidence in grammar and vocabulary.
Recognizing the word and understanding its context is generally straightforward, but distinguishing it from similar words like 'entschuldigen' might require attention.
次に学ぶべきこと
前提知識
次に学ぶ
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知っておくべき文法
Dative Case: The direct object of 'verzeihen' (the person being forgiven) is always in the dative case.
Ich verzeihe dir (you, dative). Ich verzeihe ihm (him, dative).
Perfekt Tense with 'haben': 'Verzeihen' forms its perfect tense with the auxiliary verb 'haben' and the past participle 'verziehen'.
Ich habe verziehen.
Modal Verbs: When used with modal verbs (können, müssen, wollen, etc.), 'verzeihen' appears in its infinitive form at the end of the sentence.
Ich kann dir nicht verzeihen.
Ich verzeihe dir, dass du so laut warst.
Preposition 'für': To specify what is being forgiven, use 'für' followed by the accusative case.
Ich verzeihe dir für deinen Fehler.
レベル別の例文
Ich verzeihe dir.
I forgive you.
Simple present tense, first person singular. Dative case for 'dir' (you).
Verzeih mir bitte.
Forgive me please.
Imperative form (informal singular), followed by 'bitte' (please).
Kannst du das verzeihen?
Can you forgive that?
Modal verb 'können' (can) used with infinitive 'verzeihen'.
Sie verzeiht ihm nicht.
She does not forgive him.
Present tense, third person singular 'sie' (she). Dative case for 'ihm' (him).
Wir verzeihen euch.
We forgive you (plural).
Present tense, first person plural 'wir' (we). Dative case for 'euch' (you plural).
Er hat verziehen.
He has forgiven.
Perfekt tense, using auxiliary 'haben' and past participle 'verziehen'.
Verzeihen Sie mir.
Forgive me (formal).
Formal imperative form.
Das muss ich dir verzeihen.
I have to forgive you for that.
Modal verb 'müssen' (must) with infinitive 'verzeihen'. Dative case for 'dir'.
Ich kann dir das nicht verzeihen, was du getan hast.
I cannot forgive you for what you have done.
Use of modal verb 'können', dative object 'dir', and subordinate clause with 'was'.
Nach langer Zeit hat sie ihm endlich verziehen.
After a long time, she finally forgave him.
Perfekt tense with adverb 'endlich' (finally) and dative object 'ihm'.
Bitte verzeihen Sie meinen Fehler.
Please forgive my mistake.
Formal imperative, accusative object 'meinen Fehler' (my mistake).
Wir müssen lernen, einander zu verzeihen.
We must learn to forgive each other.
Modal verb 'müssen', infinitive construction 'einander zu verzeihen'.
Er bat sie um Verzeihung für seine Worte.
He asked her for forgiveness for his words.
Using the noun 'Verzeihung' (forgiveness) with 'um' and 'für'.
Es ist schwer zu verzeihen, aber notwendig.
It is hard to forgive, but necessary.
Infinitive as subject, followed by adjective and conjunction.
Hast du ihm jemals verziehen?
Have you ever forgiven him?
Question in Perfekt tense, with adverb 'jemals' (ever).
Sie verzeiht niemandem seine Lügen.
She forgives no one for their lies.
Use of negative pronoun 'niemandem' (dative) and accusative object 'seine Lügen'.
Manchmal ist es einfacher zu verzeihen, als nachtragend zu sein.
Sometimes it is easier to forgive than to hold a grudge.
Comparison using 'als'. Infinitive clauses.
Ich habe ihm für alles verziehen, was er getan hat.
I have forgiven him for everything he has done.
Perfekt tense, 'für' + accusative, relative clause.
Sie konnte ihm einfach nicht verzeihen, dass er sie so enttäuscht hatte.
She simply couldn't forgive him that he had disappointed her so much.
Modal verb 'können' in past tense, subordinate clause with 'dass' and Pluperfekt.
Wenn wir anderen verzeihen, befreien wir uns selbst von Lasten.
When we forgive others, we free ourselves from burdens.
Subordinate clause 'Wenn', main clause with reflexive pronoun 'uns'.
Er tat so, als ob er ihr verziehen hätte.
He acted as if he had forgiven her.
Konjunktiv II with 'als ob' and Pluperfekt.
Es ist eine Frage der persönlichen Stärke, ob man verzeihen kann.
It is a question of personal strength whether one can forgive.
Subordinate clause with 'ob'.
Sie bat ihn aufrichtig, ihr diesen Verrat zu verzeihen.
She sincerely asked him to forgive her this betrayal.
Infinitive construction with 'zu verzeihen'.
Verzeihen ist ein Prozess, der Zeit braucht.
Forgiveness is a process that takes time.
Noun form 'Verzeihen' (gerund) as subject.
Obwohl es ihm schwerfiel, rang er sich dazu durch, ihr zu verzeihen.
Although it was difficult for him, he managed to forgive her.
Subordinate clause 'Obwohl', infinitive construction with 'zu verzeihen'.
Die Fähigkeit zu verzeihen ist ein Zeichen von Reife und emotionaler Intelligenz.
The ability to forgive is a sign of maturity and emotional intelligence.
Infinitive 'zu verzeihen' used attributively with 'Fähigkeit'.
Er hatte ihr stets verziehen, aber diese letzte Lüge war zu viel.
He had always forgiven her, but this last lie was too much.
Pluperfekt tense, adverb 'stets' (always), contrast with 'aber'.
Es ist nicht immer möglich oder ratsam, jedem zu verzeihen.
It is not always possible or advisable to forgive everyone.
Modal verb 'möglich' and 'ratsam' (advisable).
Die Vergebung der Sünden ist ein zentrales Thema in vielen Religionen.
The forgiveness of sins is a central theme in many religions.
Using the noun 'Vergebung' (forgiveness) which is closely related to 'verzeihen'.
Sie fragte sich, ob sie ihm jemals wirklich verzeihen könnte.
She wondered if she could ever truly forgive him.
Konjunktiv II of 'können' in a subordinate clause.
Man muss unterscheiden zwischen Verzeihen und Vergessen.
One must distinguish between forgiving and forgetting.
Using nouns derived from verbs 'verzeihen' and 'vergessen'.
Er hat sich selbst nie verziehen, dass er diesen Fehler gemacht hat.
He never forgave himself for making this mistake.
Reflexive use of 'sich verzeihen' with 'nie'.
Die Kunst des Verzeihens liegt darin, die Vergangenheit ruhen zu lassen, ohne die Gegenwart zu opfern.
The art of forgiveness lies in letting the past rest without sacrificing the present.
Abstract noun usage, infinitive clauses, nuanced meaning.
Er bedauerte zutiefst, dass er ihr nicht früher verziehen hatte, was ihn viel Kraft gekostet hatte.
He deeply regretted that he had not forgiven her earlier, which had cost him a lot of energy.
Pluperfekt, subordinate clauses, relative clause.
Ihre Weigerung, ihm zu verzeihen, war nicht Ausdruck von Stärke, sondern von tief sitzender Angst.
Her refusal to forgive him was not an expression of strength, but of deep-seated fear.
Noun derived from verb, contrast with 'sondern'.
Das Verzeihen von Fehlern anderer erfordert eine erhebliche emotionale Kapazität.
Forgiving the mistakes of others requires considerable emotional capacity.
Gerund 'Verzeihen' as subject, genitive case.
Manche Schuldgefühle lassen sich nur schwer verzeihen, selbst wenn man sich selbst die Schuld gibt.
Some feelings of guilt are hard to forgive, even if one blames oneself.
Passive infinitive construction, reflexive pronoun.
Die Gesellschaft verlangt oft, dass man verzeiht, doch die persönliche Bereitschaft dazu fehlt häufig.
Society often demands that one forgives, yet the personal readiness for it is often lacking.
Subordinate clause with 'dass', noun 'Bereitschaft'.
Er war entschlossen, ihr zu verzeihen, um endlich Frieden mit sich selbst zu schließen.
He was determined to forgive her in order to finally make peace with himself.
Infinitive construction with 'zu verzeihen', purpose clause with 'um...zu'.
Die Fähigkeit, auch nach schwersten Verletzungen zu verzeihen, zeugt von einer bemerkenswerten menschlichen Widerstandsfähigkeit.
The ability to forgive even after the gravest injuries testifies to remarkable human resilience.
Complex sentence structure, participial phrase.
Die transzendente Kraft des Verzeihens ermöglicht es dem Menschen, sich von den Fesseln der Vergangenheit zu lösen und einen Weg zur Heilung zu beschreiten.
The transcendent power of forgiveness enables humanity to break free from the chains of the past and embark on a path to healing.
Highly abstract vocabulary, complex sentence structure, metaphorical language.
Es obliegt dem Einzelnen, zu entscheiden, wann und ob er bereit ist, einem anderen zu verzeihen, unabhängig von gesellschaftlichem Druck.
It is incumbent upon the individual to decide when and whether they are ready to forgive another, regardless of societal pressure.
Impersonal construction 'es obliegt', conditional clauses, sophisticated vocabulary.
Die psychologische Komplexität des Verzeihens umfasst nicht nur die Auflösung von Groll, sondern auch die Neukonstruktion des Selbstbildes nach einer Kränkung.
The psychological complexity of forgiveness encompasses not only the dissolution of resentment but also the reconstruction of self-image after an offense.
Abstract nouns, parallel structures, specialized terminology.
Obwohl die theologischen Auslegungen des Verzeihens variieren, bleibt die Idee der Gnade und der Wiederherstellung der Beziehung ein universelles Motiv.
Although theological interpretations of forgiveness vary, the idea of grace and the restoration of relationships remains a universal motif.
Subordinate clause, abstract concepts, formal register.
Das Verzeihen von kollektiven Traumata ist eine monumentale Aufgabe, die generationenübergreifendes Engagement und tiefes Verständnis erfordert.
Forgiving collective traumas is a monumental task that requires intergenerational commitment and deep understanding.
Abstract noun as subject, complex adjective use, formal tone.
Die Empathie, die notwendig ist, um einem Täter zu verzeihen, kann als eine Form der existenziellen Befreiung verstanden werden.
The empathy required to forgive a perpetrator can be understood as a form of existential liberation.
Complex participial phrase, philosophical terms.
Die Unterscheidung zwischen Verzeihen und bloßer Nachsicht ist entscheidend, um die Tiefe der emotionalen Verarbeitung zu erfassen.
The distinction between forgiveness and mere indulgence is crucial for grasping the depth of emotional processing.
Abstract nouns, complex sentence structure, nuanced meaning.
Manche Philosophen argumentieren, dass das Verzeihen eine aktive Entscheidung ist, die Vergebung von sich selbst einschließt.
Some philosophers argue that forgiveness is an active decision that includes forgiving oneself.
Subordinate clause, reflexive usage, philosophical discourse.
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— I forgive you. This is a direct statement of forgiveness, typically in response to an apology.
Du hast einen Fehler gemacht, aber ich verzeihe dir.
— Forgive me! This is a plea for forgiveness, used informally.
Es tut mir so leid, Verzeih mir!
— Can you forgive me? A question seeking assurance of forgiveness.
Ich weiß, ich habe dich verletzt. Kannst du mir verzeihen?
— I ask for forgiveness. A more formal or earnest way to seek pardon.
Ich bitte um Verzeihung für mein unhöfliches Verhalten.
— Sorry for... / Forgive me for... Used to specify the reason for the apology/forgiveness.
Verzeihung für die Verspätung.
— That is forgiven. Implies that the matter is settled and no longer held against the person.
Du hast es endlich zurückgegeben? Gut, das ist verziehen.
— I cannot forgive you for that. Expresses an inability or unwillingness to forgive.
Was du getan hast, war zu schlimm. Ich kann dir das nicht verzeihen.
— Please forgive (formal). A polite request for forgiveness using the formal 'Sie'.
Verzeihen Sie bitte, dass ich zu spät bin.
— It is hard to forgive. Acknowledges the difficulty of the act.
Nach allem, was passiert ist, ist es schwer zu verzeihen.
— He has forgiven her. A statement about a past act of forgiveness.
Sie hat sich entschuldigt und er hat ihr verziehen.
よく混同される語
'Entschuldigen' means 'to excuse' or 'to apologize'. While often preceding forgiveness, it is not the same act. You 'entschuldigen' yourself (apologize) and someone else might 'verzeihen' you (forgive you).
'Vergeben' can also mean 'to forgive', but it's often used in more formal or religious contexts and can imply a deeper, more complete release than the everyday 'verzeihen'.
'Nachsehen' is a milder term meaning 'to overlook' or 'to indulge'. It implies tolerating a small fault rather than the deeper emotional act of letting go of resentment associated with 'verzeihen'.
慣用句と表現
— To overlook something, to indulge someone, to let something slide. This is a milder form of forgiveness, implying tolerating a minor fault.
Ich sehe dir diesen kleinen Fehler gerne nach.
Informal— To let something rest, to not pursue an issue further. It can imply a form of letting go or 'forgiving' by not dwelling on it.
Nach der Diskussion haben wir es einfach auf sich beruhen lassen.
Neutral— To clear the air, to start with a clean slate. This often involves forgiving past issues to move forward positively.
Nach dem Gespräch wollen wir reinen Tisch machen.
Neutral— To come to terms with something, to accept something. While not direct forgiveness, it can involve accepting a situation or person's actions without holding onto resentment.
Er musste sich mit der Entscheidung abfinden.
Neutral— To turn a blind eye, to overlook something deliberately. Similar to 'nachsehen', but can imply a more conscious decision to ignore a fault.
Bei kleinen Verstößen drückte der Lehrer oft ein Auge zu.
Informal— To build a bridge. In a relational context, this often means to reconcile and mend fences, which forgiveness facilitates.
Nach dem Streit war es wichtig, eine Brücke zu bauen.
Neutral— To take a weight off someone's mind/heart. If someone forgives you, it can feel like they've taken a burden off your shoulders.
Als sie mir verzieh, nahm sie mir einen Stein aus dem Herzen.
Figurative— To bury the grudge. This is a direct action related to letting go of resentment, a key part of forgiveness.
Es ist Zeit, den Groll zu begraben und nach vorne zu schauen.
Figurative— To reconcile. Forgiveness is often a necessary step towards reconciliation.
Die beiden Freunde haben sich endlich versöhnt.
Neutral— To close a chapter. This can involve forgiving past events or people to move on.
Sie musste dieses Kapitel abschließen, um glücklich zu werden.
Figurative間違えやすい
Both relate to dealing with mistakes or offenses.
'Entschuldigen' (or sich entschuldigen) is about apologizing or asking for an excuse. 'Verzeihen' is about the act of pardoning or letting go of anger after an offense has occurred. You apologize first, and then forgiveness might follow.
Er <em>entschuldigte sich</em> für sein Verhalten. Sie konnte ihm das nicht <em>verzeihen</em>.
Both mean 'to forgive'.
'Verzeihen' is the most common, everyday verb for forgiving someone in personal interactions. 'Vergeben' can also mean 'to forgive', but it often carries a more profound, sometimes spiritual or religious, connotation, or refers to a more complete release. In everyday speech, 'verzeihen' is more frequent for simple forgiveness.
Ich <em>verzeihe</em> dir. (Common, everyday) vs. Gott <em>vergibt</em> die Sünden. (Religious context)
Both imply overlooking a fault.
'Nachsehen' is a less intense form of forgiveness, meaning to overlook a minor mistake or inconvenience, to 'let it slide'. 'Verzeihen' involves a more significant emotional release of anger or resentment towards someone for a more serious offense.
Ich <em>sehe</em> dir den kleinen Fehler <em>nach</em>. (Minor) vs. Ich kann dir diese große Lüge nicht <em>verzeihen</em>. (Serious)
Both can relate to accepting something negative.
'Dulden' means to tolerate or endure something unpleasant without necessarily approving of it or letting go of negative feelings. It's about putting up with something. 'Verzeihen' is an active decision to release anger and blame.
Wir müssen diese Unannehmlichkeiten <em>dulden</em>. (Tolerate) vs. Ich <em>verzeihe</em> dir deine Unhöflichkeit. (Forgive)
Both relate to pardoning.
'Begnadigen' is a formal, often legal term meaning to pardon, typically used by an authority (like a king or judge) to remit a punishment. 'Verzeihen' is used in personal, interpersonal contexts to forgive someone for a wrong they've done.
Der Präsident <em>begnadigte</em> den Häftling. (Formal pardon) vs. Ich <em>verzeihe</em> dir, dass du zu spät warst. (Personal forgiveness)
文型パターン
Ich verzeihe dir.
Ich verzeihe dir.
Verzeih mir!
Verzeih mir!
Kannst du mir verzeihen?
Kannst du mir verzeihen?
Sie verzeiht ihm nicht.
Sie verzeiht ihm nicht.
Ich habe dir für deinen Fehler verziehen.
Ich habe dir für deinen Fehler verziehen.
Es ist schwer zu verzeihen.
Es ist schwer zu verzeihen.
Obwohl es ihm schwerfiel, verzieh er ihr.
Obwohl es ihm schwerfiel, verzieh er ihr.
Die Fähigkeit zu verzeihen ist ein Zeichen von Reife.
Die Fähigkeit zu verzeihen ist ein Zeichen von Reife.
語族
名詞
動詞
形容詞
関連
使い方
Common
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Using the accusative case for the person being forgiven.
→
Using the dative case for the person being forgiven.
The verb 'verzeihen' requires the dative case for its direct object when referring to the person being forgiven. For example, it's 'Ich verzeihe <em>dir</em>' (dative), not 'Ich verzeihe <em>dich</em>' (accusative).
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Confusing 'verzeihen' with 'entschuldigen'.
→
Using 'entschuldigen' for apologizing and 'verzeihen' for forgiving.
'Entschuldigen' means to excuse or apologize. 'Verzeihen' means to forgive. You apologize ('sich entschuldigen') for a mistake, and the other person may then forgive you ('verzeihen'). They are not interchangeable.
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Using the wrong past participle in the Perfekt tense.
→
Using 'verziehen' as the past participle.
The past participle of 'verzeihen' is 'verziehen'. Learners sometimes incorrectly use 'verzeiht' or other forms. The correct Perfekt tense is 'Ich habe verziehen'.
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Overusing 'verzeihen' for minor issues.
→
Using simpler phrases like 'Kein Problem' or 'Macht nichts' for minor issues.
'Verzeihen' implies a significant act of letting go of anger. For small inconveniences, it can sound overly dramatic or insincere. Use it when real forgiveness is needed.
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Using 'verzeihen' in place of 'vergeben' in specific contexts.
→
Using 'vergeben' for more profound or religious forgiveness, and 'verzeihen' for everyday situations.
While both mean 'to forgive', 'vergeben' often carries a deeper, more formal, or spiritual connotation, especially in religious contexts ('Gott vergibt'). 'Verzeihen' is the standard, everyday verb for personal forgiveness.
ヒント
Master the Dative Case
Remember that when you forgive someone, they are in the dative case. For example, 'Ich verzeihe dir' (I forgive you) and 'Ich verzeihe ihm' (I forgive him). This is a fundamental rule for using 'verzeihen' correctly.
Distinguish from 'Entschuldigen'
Don't confuse 'verzeihen' (to forgive) with 'entschuldigen' (to excuse or apologize). You apologize ('sich entschuldigen') for something, and then someone might forgive you ('verzeihen'). They are related but distinct actions.
Focus on the 'V' and 'CH'
The initial 'v' in 'verzeihen' sounds like an 'f'. The final 'ch' is a soft guttural sound, not a hard 'k'. Practice saying 'ver-ZEI-hen' to get the stress right.
Connect to 'Very Sighing'
Think of 'verzeihen' sounding like 'very sighing'. You sigh deeply when you let go of something frustrating, which is what forgiveness often involves.
Role-Play Scenarios
Practice dialogues where one person apologizes and the other forgives. This helps internalize the grammatical structures and appropriate phrasing.
Learn Related Nouns
Knowing the noun 'die Verzeihung' (forgiveness) and the adjective 'unverzeihlich' (unforgivable) will deepen your understanding and usage of the concept.
Cultural Nuance
Understand that forgiveness is a significant concept in German culture, often linked to reconciliation and personal peace. The act of 'verzeihen' can be very meaningful.
Perfekt Tense Formation
Remember that the past participle for 'verzeihen' is 'verziehen', and it forms the perfect tense with 'haben'. 'Ich habe dir verziehen'.
Observe in Media
Pay attention to how 'verzeihen' is used in German movies, TV shows, and books. This will expose you to natural usage and emotional context.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Imagine a 'very' 'sighing' person who is trying to let go of anger. The sound 'ver-zei-hen' can sound like 'very sighing'. So, 'verzeihen' is when you are 'very sighing' because you are letting go of something that made you angry.
視覚的連想
Picture someone holding a heavy stone labeled 'anger' or 'grudge'. They are then shown letting the stone fall away, appearing relieved. The act of letting go of the stone is 'verzeihen'.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Try to use 'verzeihen' in three different sentences today: one where you forgive a small mistake, one where you ask for forgiveness, and one where you reflect on the difficulty of forgiving.
語源
The word 'verzeihen' originates from Middle High German 'verzîhen', which itself comes from Old High German 'firzeihan'. The Old High German form is a combination of the prefix 'fir-' (a common intensifying or perfective prefix, similar to English 'for-' or 'un-') and the verb 'zeihan' (to point out, to accuse, to blame).
元の意味： Therefore, the literal original meaning was something like 'to un-accuse', 'to release from blame', or 'to absolve'. This etymological root clearly points to the core meaning of forgiveness as the removal of accusation or blame.
Germanic languages文化的な背景
The act of forgiving can be deeply personal and sensitive. While 'verzeihen' is the general term, the context and relationship between individuals dictate its appropriateness and impact. Forgiveness is not always immediate or guaranteed, and the decision to forgive is often a complex emotional journey.
In English-speaking cultures, 'forgive' and 'pardon' carry similar weight. The act of forgiveness is often seen as a personal choice and a sign of strength or maturity. The phrase 'I forgive you' is direct and commonly used.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Apologies and making amends after a mistake.
- Ich bitte um Verzeihung.
- Bitte verzeih mir.
- Kannst du mir verzeihen?
Resolving conflicts and disagreements.
- Ich verzeihe dir.
- Das ist verziehen.
- Lasst uns das hinter uns lassen.
Religious or philosophical discussions about morality.
- Gott verzeiht.
- Wir müssen anderen verzeihen.
- Die Kraft des Verzeihens.
Expressing regret and seeking absolution.
- Ich kann dir das nicht verzeihen.
- Es ist schwer zu verzeihen.
- Ich hoffe, du kannst mir verzeihen.
Formal apologies or statements.
- Wir bitten um Ihr Verzeihen.
- Verzeihen Sie bitte diesen Fehler.
会話のきっかけ
"What's the hardest thing you've ever had to forgive?"
"Do you think it's always better to forgive than to hold a grudge?"
"When someone apologizes, how do you decide whether to forgive them?"
"Is it easier to forgive others or yourself?"
"What role does forgiveness play in maintaining friendships?"
日記のテーマ
Write about a time you had to forgive someone. What was the situation, and how did you feel before and after forgiving them?
Reflect on a situation where you wished someone would forgive you. What did you do, and what was the outcome?
Consider the difference between excusing behavior and truly forgiving it. Write your thoughts on this distinction.
Imagine you are writing a letter to your past self, offering forgiveness for a mistake. What would you say?
Explore the idea of self-forgiveness. What does it mean to you, and what steps can one take to achieve it?
よくある質問
10 問'Entschuldigen' is primarily about apologizing or excusing something. For example, 'Ich entschuldige mich' means 'I apologize'. 'Verzeihen' is about the act of forgiving, of letting go of anger or resentment. Someone apologizes using 'entschuldigen', and the other person might respond by 'verzeihen' (forgiving). So, 'entschuldigen' is often the action that precedes 'verzeihen'.
'Verzeihen' is the more common and general verb for 'to forgive' in everyday German. 'Vergeben' can also mean 'to forgive', but it's often used in more formal, religious, or profound contexts, implying a deeper release or divine grace. For everyday situations like forgiving a friend for being late, 'verzeihen' is the preferred choice.
The person or people being forgiven after 'verzeihen' always take the dative case. For example, 'Ich verzeihe dir' (I forgive you - singular informal) and 'Ich verzeihe ihm' (I forgive him). This is a crucial grammatical point to remember.
You can say 'Verzeih mir!' (informal, singular), 'Verzeiht mir!' (informal, plural), or 'Verzeihen Sie mir!' (formal). Adding 'bitte' (please) makes it more polite: 'Verzeih mir bitte!'
While technically you can 'verzeihen' for minor mistakes, it's often considered too strong for very trivial matters. For small inconveniences, phrases like 'Kein Problem' (No problem) or 'Macht nichts' (It's nothing) are more common and natural. 'Verzeihen' implies a more significant act of letting go of anger or resentment.
The past participle of 'verzeihen' is 'verziehen'. When forming the Perfekt tense (present perfect), you use the auxiliary verb 'haben' with this past participle, e.g., 'Ich habe dir verziehen' (I have forgiven you).
Yes, you can forgive yourself using the reflexive form: 'sich selbst verzeihen'. For example, 'Er konnte sich selbst nicht verzeihen, dass er diesen Fehler gemacht hatte' (He could not forgive himself for making that mistake).
This phrase means 'That is forgiven' or 'It's forgiven'. It implies that the matter is settled, the offense is no longer held against the person, and the speaker has let go of any anger related to it.
Yes, 'verzeihen' is a very common and important verb in German. It's used frequently in everyday conversation, literature, and media whenever the concept of forgiveness arises.
The noun form is 'die Verzeihung', which means 'forgiveness' or 'pardon'. It is also used as an interjection meaning 'excuse me' or 'pardon me', similar to 'Entschuldigung'.
自分をテスト 10 問
/ 10 correct
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Summary
Verzeihen is the German verb for 'to forgive' or 'to pardon'. It signifies the act of releasing anger and resentment towards someone who has offended you, often following an apology or as a step towards reconciliation. Grammatically, the person being forgiven is in the dative case (e.g., 'Ich verzeihe dir' - I forgive you). This concept is fundamental to interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution.
- Verzeihen means to forgive or pardon.
- It involves letting go of anger after someone wrongs you.
- Used in apologies and reconciliation.
- Requires dative case for the person forgiven.
Master the Dative Case
Remember that when you forgive someone, they are in the dative case. For example, 'Ich verzeihe dir' (I forgive you) and 'Ich verzeihe ihm' (I forgive him). This is a fundamental rule for using 'verzeihen' correctly.
Distinguish from 'Entschuldigen'
Don't confuse 'verzeihen' (to forgive) with 'entschuldigen' (to excuse or apologize). You apologize ('sich entschuldigen') for something, and then someone might forgive you ('verzeihen'). They are related but distinct actions.
Context is Key
Use 'verzeihen' when there's a genuine release of anger or resentment. For minor issues, simpler phrases like 'Kein Problem' are often more appropriate. 'Verzeihen' carries emotional weight.
Focus on the 'V' and 'CH'
The initial 'v' in 'verzeihen' sounds like an 'f'. The final 'ch' is a soft guttural sound, not a hard 'k'. Practice saying 'ver-ZEI-hen' to get the stress right.
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