이 페이지를 내 언어로

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 noun #6,000 가장 일반적인 10분 분량

Vergebung

상위 6,000

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 Vergebung 30초 만에

설명 Vergebung in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'Vergebung' very often. It is a big, heavy word. Instead, you usually say 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me / I'm sorry). However, it is good to know that 'Vergebung' comes from the verb 'vergeben' which means 'to forgive.' You might see it in very simple religious texts or stories. Just remember: if you break a glass, say 'Entschuldigung.' If you do something very, very bad and want to be friends again after a long time, that is when 'Vergebung' starts to matter. It is a feminine word: 'die Vergebung.' At this level, just recognize it when you see it in a book about feelings or a movie.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the A2 level, you are starting to talk more about feelings and past events. You might learn the phrase 'um Vergebung bitten' (to ask for forgiveness). This is a more formal and serious way to say you are sorry. If you are reading a simple story and a character is very sad about a mistake, they might seek 'Vergebung.' You should also know that 'vergeben' is a verb you can use. For example: 'Ich vergebe dir' (I forgive you). Notice that the person you forgive is in the dative case (dir). 'Vergebung' is the noun form of this action. It's a 'Level 2' sorry—much stronger than 'Tut mir leid.'

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the B1 level, 'Vergebung' becomes a key vocabulary word for discussing topics like relationships, ethics, and social issues. You should be able to explain why someone might need 'Vergebung.' You will use it with the preposition 'um': 'Er bittet um Vergebung.' You should also understand its cultural weight in Germany. Germany has a lot of history where 'Vergebung' and 'Versöhnung' (reconciliation) are discussed in schools and on TV. You might have to write a short text about a conflict and use this word to describe the resolution. It's an abstract noun, and at B1, you are expected to handle abstract concepts more comfortably.

At the B2 level, you should distinguish 'Vergebung' from its synonyms like 'Verzeihung,' 'Begnadigung,' and 'Nachsicht.' You will encounter it in more complex literature and news articles. You should understand that 'Vergebung' is often a process. You might use it in a debate: 'Kann man jede Tat vergeben?' (Can every act be forgiven?). You should also be familiar with compound words like 'Sündenvergebung' or 'Schuldvergebung.' Your usage should be precise—don't use it for trivial matters. You should also be able to use the adjective 'vergebungsbereit' (ready to forgive) to describe someone's personality in a character analysis.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C1 level, you explore the philosophical and psychological depths of 'Vergebung.' You might read academic or theological texts where the concept is analyzed in detail. You should understand the difference between 'Vergebung' as a personal act and 'Begnadigung' as a legal act. You will use the word in nuanced ways, perhaps discussing whether 'Vergebung' is possible without 'Reue' (remorse). You should also be able to recognize it in idiomatic or metaphorical contexts. Your ability to discuss the 'moralische Dimension der Vergebung' (moral dimension of forgiveness) should be sophisticated, using advanced sentence structures and varied vocabulary.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of the word's connotations. You can appreciate its use in high literature (like Goethe or Schiller) and complex legal or political discourse. You understand the subtle shift in meaning when 'Vergebung' is used in different historical contexts. You can write essays on the 'Unvergebbarkeit' (unforgivability) of certain historical crimes. You use the word with perfect grammatical accuracy in all cases and can play with its nuances to express subtle emotional states. You are also aware of the etymological roots and how the 'ver-' prefix changes the meaning of 'geben' to create this powerful abstract concept.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

Vergebung 30초 만에

Vergebung means 'forgiveness' and is used for serious emotional or moral pardoning.
It is a feminine noun (die Vergebung) derived from the verb 'vergeben'.
Commonly used in phrases like 'um Vergebung bitten' (to ask for forgiveness).
Distinguish it from 'Entschuldigung' (casual sorry) and 'Vergabe' (allocation).

The German noun Vergebung is a profound and multi-layered term primarily translated as 'forgiveness.' At its core, it represents the act of letting go of resentment, anger, or the desire for retribution toward someone who has committed an offense. Unlike a simple apology (Entschuldigung), which might be used for minor social transgressions like bumping into someone, Vergebung carries significant emotional, moral, and often religious weight. It is the formal or spiritual process of granting pardon. In German culture, which values directness and sincerity, the word is not used lightly; it implies a deep internal shift or a formal declaration of absolution.

Theological Context: In religious settings, particularly within Christianity which has deeply influenced the German language, Vergebung refers to the remission of sins by God or the act of a believer forgiving others as a spiritual duty. It is the central theme of the 'Lord's Prayer' (Vaterunser).

Interpersonal Relationships: In a secular sense, it describes the healing of a relationship after a serious breach of trust. When a German says, 'Ich bitte dich um Vergebung,' they are asking for something much deeper than 'I'm sorry'; they are asking for the relationship to be restored and the debt of the offense to be wiped clean.

Echte Vergebung ist ein Geschenk, das man sich selbst macht, um inneren Frieden zu finden.

The word is derived from the verb vergeben. In German, the prefix ver- often denotes a process of change or completion. In this case, geben (to give) combined with ver- implies a 'giving away' of the right to be angry. Historically, it was also used in the context of 'awarding' or 'allocating' (like Auftragsvergabe), but in modern everyday speech, its primary association is emotional and ethical. Understanding Vergebung is crucial for B1 learners because it appears frequently in literature, film, and deep conversations about human nature. It is a feminine noun (die Vergebung), which follows standard declension patterns. When you seek it, you 'bitten um Vergebung' (ask for forgiveness); when you grant it, you 'gewähren Vergebung' (grant forgiveness).

Ohne Vergebung gibt es keinen Neuanfang in einer zerbrochenen Freundschaft.

Legal and Formal Use: In formal contexts, Vergebung can also refer to the remission of a debt or a penalty, although Erlass or Begnadigung are more common in legal terminology. However, in the context of 'forgiving a loan,' one might see related forms of the verb.

Die Vergebung der Sünden ist ein zentrales Element der christlichen Liturgie.

Er suchte jahrelang nach Vergebung für seine vergangenen Fehler.

Kann es nach so einem Verrat überhaupt noch Vergebung geben?

Using Vergebung correctly requires understanding its grammatical environment. As a noun, it is almost always preceded by the definite article die or used in prepositional phrases. The most common verb paired with it is bitten (to ask/beg). The construction is: jemanden um Vergebung bitten. Note that um triggers the accusative case, but since Vergebung is feminine, the form remains the same. Another common pairing is gewähren (to grant), as in jemandem Vergebung gewähren, which uses the dative for the person receiving forgiveness.

Active Seeking: When you are the one who did wrong: 'Ich möchte dich aufrichtig um Vergebung bitten.' This sentence is powerful and formal, showing deep regret.

Nach dem großen Streit bat er seine Eltern unter Tränen um Vergebung.

Abstract Discussion: When talking about the concept: 'Ist Vergebung eine Schwäche oder eine Stärke?' Here, the noun stands alone as a subject.

In literary or highly formal German, you might encounter the phrase Vergebung finden (to find forgiveness). This describes the internal state of the person who committed the wrong. For example, 'Er konnte für seine Taten keine Vergebung finden,' suggests a struggle with guilt. Additionally, the adjective vergebungsbereit (ready/willing to forgive) is a useful compound to describe a person's character. If someone is unversöhnlich (implacable), they are the opposite of being ready for Vergebung. When writing, ensure you capitalize the 'V' as it is a noun, and be mindful of the preposition um, which is the standard bridge between the request and the noun.

Die Vergebung fiel ihr schwer, aber sie wollte die Vergangenheit hinter sich lassen.

The 'Ver-' Prefix: Understanding that ver- often implies a 'going away' helps. You are 'giving away' the blame. This makes the word feel more active than the English 'forgiveness,' which feels like a state.

Nur durch Vergebung können wir den Kreislauf des Hasses durchbrechen.

Sie hoffte auf göttliche Vergebung für ihre Sünden.

In seinem Testament bat er alle seine Feinde um Vergebung.

You will encounter Vergebung in several specific domains of German life. First and foremost is in literature and cinema. German history, particularly the post-WWII era, is heavily focused on themes of guilt (Schuld) and reconciliation (Versöhnung), making Vergebung a central motif in many classic and modern works. In movies like 'The Reader' (Der Vorleser) or 'The Lives of Others' (Das Leben der Anderen), the possibility of Vergebung for past actions is a major plot driver. You will hear characters debate whether certain acts are beyond Vergebung.

In the Church: If you attend a German church service, you will hear it during the liturgy. The 'Sündenvergebung' (forgiveness of sins) is a standard part of the Protestant and Catholic mass. Phrases like 'Dir sind deine Sünden vergeben' (Your sins are forgiven) are foundational.

Der Pfarrer sprach über die heilende Kraft der Vergebung.

In Therapy and Self-Help: The modern German self-help scene (Psychologie heute, etc.) uses Vergebung to talk about emotional health. It is often discussed in the context of 'Selbstvergebung' (self-forgiveness), which is seen as necessary for moving past trauma.

In news and politics, the term appears when discussing international relations and historical reconciliation. For instance, when a head of state visits a site of past atrocities, the media often discusses whether 'Vergebung' has been achieved or if 'Wiedergutmachung' (restitution) is still required. It is a word that signals a shift from the practical to the ethical. You won't hear it at the supermarket, but you will hear it in any space where the human condition is being examined. Understanding its weight helps you grasp the emotional temperature of a conversation. If someone uses this word, they are being very serious and likely very vulnerable.

In dem Film geht es um die unmögliche Vergebung nach einem schweren Verbrechen.

Politiker fordern oft Vergebung, ohne echte Verantwortung zu übernehmen.

In der Therapie lernte sie, dass Vergebung Zeit braucht.

The most frequent mistake learners make with Vergebung is confusing it with its close linguistic relatives or using it in the wrong register. Because English uses 'forgiveness' broadly, learners often translate it directly into situations where a German speaker would use a different word. The first major pitfall is the confusion between Vergebung and Vergabe. While they look similar, Vergabe refers to the 'awarding' or 'allocation' of something, like a contract or a prize. Saying 'Die Vergebung des Preises' (The forgiveness of the prize) instead of 'Die Vergabe des Preises' would be a confusing error.

Register Errors: Using 'Vergebung' for small things: If you drop a pen and say 'Ich bitte um Vergebung,' it sounds overly dramatic, like something from a 19th-century novel. Stick to 'Entschuldigung' or 'Verzeihung' for daily mishaps.

Falsch: Ich bitte um Vergebung, dass ich zu spät zum Mittagessen komme.

Prepositional Mistakes: Learners often forget the preposition um. They might say 'Ich bitte Vergebung,' which is grammatically incomplete. It must be 'Ich bitte um Vergebung.'

Another mistake is the incorrect use of the verb vergeben. While vergeben means 'to forgive,' it also means 'to be taken' or 'unavailable' (e.g., 'Der Platz ist schon vergeben' - The seat is already taken). Context is key. If you are talking about seats or jobs, vergeben has nothing to do with forgiveness. Lastly, pay attention to the gender. Vergebung is feminine because of the -ung suffix. Using 'der Vergebung' or 'das Vergebung' is a common gender error for beginners. Always associate the -ung ending with the feminine gender to avoid this.

Falsch: Die Vergabe meiner Sünden ist wichtig für mich. (Should be Vergebung)

Richtig: Er bat um Vergebung für sein langes Schweigen.

Richtig: Die Vergebung ist ein langer Prozess.

German has several words that touch on the concept of 'forgiveness' or 'excuse,' and choosing the right one depends on the intensity and context of the situation. Understanding these nuances will make your German sound much more natural and precise. The most frequent alternative is Verzeihung. While Vergebung is heavy and often permanent/spiritual, Verzeihung is the standard polite word for interpersonal mistakes. It is the middle ground between a casual 'Sorry' and a life-altering 'Forgiveness.'

Vergebung vs. Verzeihung: Vergebung: Deep, theological, often refers to major sins or life-changing events.
Verzeihung: Everyday use, polite, refers to mistakes, forgetting an appointment, or being late.

Begnadigung: This is specifically 'clemency' or a 'pardon' in a legal or monarchical sense. A president grants Begnadigung to a prisoner. It is a formal act of the state, whereas Vergebung is an act of the heart or soul.

Während Verzeihung oft spontan geschieht, ist Vergebung eine bewusste Entscheidung.

Another related term is Versöhnung (reconciliation). While Vergebung can be one-sided (you forgive someone even if they don't ask), Versöhnung requires two parties to come together and restore their bond. You might grant Vergebung to find peace, but Versöhnung is the ultimate goal of a broken relationship. There is also Nachsicht (forbearance/leniency), which is used when someone is being 'easy' on someone else's flaws or mistakes. For example, a teacher might show Nachsicht with a student who is having a hard time. Finally, Erlass refers specifically to the 'remission' or 'waiving' of a debt or fine. Using these words accurately shows a B2/C1 level of mastery.

Der Richter zeigte Nachsicht, aber die Vergebung der Opfer stand noch aus.

Nach der Vergebung folgte die Versöhnung der beiden Brüder.

Die Begnadigung durch den Präsidenten war seine letzte Hoffnung.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The prefix 'ver-' in German is extremely versatile. In 'Vergebung,' it acts as a perfective prefix, indicating the completion of the act of giving away the blame.

발음 가이드

UK /fɛɐ̯ˈɡeːbʊŋ/

US /fɛɐ̯ˈɡeɪbʊŋ/

The stress is on the second syllable: ver-GE-bung.

라임이 맞는 단어

Umgebung (environment) Erhebung (survey/elevation) Belebung (revival) Bestrebung (endeavor) Vererbung (inheritance) Farbgebung (coloring) Gesetzgebung (legislation) Hingabe (different ending, but similar root feel)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing the 'v' like a 'v' in English (it should be 'f').
Stress on the first syllable (it should be on 'ge').
Shortening the long 'e' in 'ge'.
Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly (it should be a soft vowel sound).
Confusing 'ung' with 'ank'.

난이도

독해 3/5

Easy to recognize but requires context to distinguish from 'Vergabe'.

쓰기 4/5

Requires knowledge of the 'um' preposition and correct gender.

말하기 4/5

Pronunciation of 'v' as 'f' and the 'er' sound can be tricky.

듣기 3/5

Clear pronunciation in formal contexts makes it easy to hear.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

geben vergeben Schuld bitten Entschuldigung

다음에 배울 것

Versöhnung Gnade Begnadigung Reue Sühne

고급

Unvergeblichkeit Wiedergutmachung Barmherzigkeit Langmut

알아야 할 문법

Nouns ending in -ung are always feminine.

Die Vergebung, die Hoffnung, die Meinung.

The preposition 'um' always takes the accusative case.

Ich bitte um die (acc) Vergebung.

Verbs with the prefix 'ver-' are often inseparable.

Ich vergebe dir. (Not: Ich gebe dir ver).

The verb 'vergeben' takes a dative object for the person.

Ich vergebe meinem Freund (dat).

Abstract nouns like Vergebung usually don't have a plural in common usage.

Man spricht von Vergebung, nicht von Vergebungen.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

수준별 예문

Ich bitte um Vergebung.

I ask for forgiveness.

Basic 'um' + noun construction.

Die Vergebung ist schön.

Forgiveness is beautiful.

Simple subject-verb-adjective.

Er braucht Vergebung.

He needs forgiveness.

Direct object use.

Ist Vergebung wichtig?

Is forgiveness important?

Simple question structure.

Sie gibt ihm Vergebung.

She gives him forgiveness.

Dative indirect object (ihm).

Vergebung hilft dem Herz.

Forgiveness helps the heart.

'Helfen' takes the dative (dem Herz).

Wir suchen Vergebung.

We are looking for forgiveness.

Plural subject.

Keine Vergebung für ihn.

No forgiveness for him.

Negative 'keine' with feminine noun.

Nach dem Streit bat er um Vergebung.

After the argument, he asked for forgiveness.

Preterite of 'bitten' (bat).

Kannst du mir Vergebung schenken?

Can you give me forgiveness? (lit. 'gift' me)

Modal verb 'können' + 'schenken'.

Vergebung ist nicht immer einfach.

Forgiveness is not always easy.

Use of 'nicht immer' to qualify.

Sie hofft auf seine Vergebung.

She hopes for his forgiveness.

'Hoffen auf' + accusative.

Ohne Vergebung bleibt man traurig.

Without forgiveness, one stays sad.

'Ohne' takes the accusative.

Er schreibt ein Lied über Vergebung.

He is writing a song about forgiveness.

'Über' + accusative for topics.

Gibt es heute noch Vergebung?

Is there still forgiveness today?

'Es gibt' + accusative.

Deine Vergebung bedeutet mir viel.

Your forgiveness means a lot to me.

Possessive pronoun 'deine'.

In vielen Religionen ist die Vergebung zentral.

In many religions, forgiveness is central.

Dative plural 'Religionen'.

Sie konnte ihm die Vergebung nicht verweigern.

She could not deny him forgiveness.

Double infinitive structure.

Vergebung erfordert oft viel Mut.

Forgiveness often requires a lot of courage.

Abstract noun as subject.

Er hat endlich die Vergebung gefunden, die er suchte.

He finally found the forgiveness he was looking for.

Relative clause with 'die'.

Manchmal ist Selbstvergebung der schwerste Schritt.

Sometimes self-forgiveness is the hardest step.

Superlative 'schwerste'.

Die Vergebung der Schulden war eine große Hilfe.

The forgiveness of the debts was a great help.

Genitive plural 'der Schulden'.

Wir sprachen lange über das Thema Vergebung.

We talked for a long time about the topic of forgiveness.

Compound-like structure 'Thema Vergebung'.

Wahre Vergebung kommt von Herzen.

True forgiveness comes from the heart.

Adjective 'wahre' matching feminine noun.

Die Vergebung ist ein psychologischer Prozess der Heilung.

Forgiveness is a psychological process of healing.

Scientific/Academic tone.

Nach jahrelanger Feindschaft kam es endlich zur Vergebung.

After years of enmity, forgiveness finally occurred.

'Es kam zu' + dative.

Sie zweifelte an der Aufrichtigkeit seiner Vergebung.

She doubted the sincerity of his forgiveness.

'Zweifeln an' + dative.

Vergebung sollte nicht mit Vergessen verwechselt werden.

Forgiveness should not be confused with forgetting.

Passive voice with modal verb.

Die gesellschaftliche Vergebung ist oft komplizierter als die private.

Societal forgiveness is often more complicated than private (forgiveness).

Comparative 'komplizierter'.

Er plädierte für eine Kultur der Vergebung.

He pleaded for a culture of forgiveness.

'Plädieren für' + accusative.

Trotz der Vergebung blieb ein gewisser Abstand zwischen ihnen.

Despite the forgiveness, a certain distance remained between them.

'Trotz' + genitive.

Die Vergebung befreite ihn von seiner inneren Last.

Forgiveness freed him from his inner burden.

'Befreien von' + dative.

Die philosophische Debatte um die Vergebung ist jahrhundertealt.

The philosophical debate surrounding forgiveness is centuries old.

Complex attributive adjective.

Vergebung setzt oft eine tiefe Reue des Täters voraus.

Forgiveness often presupposes a deep remorse of the perpetrator.

Separable verb 'voraussetzen'.

In der Politik dient Vergebung manchmal als Instrument der Macht.

In politics, forgiveness sometimes serves as an instrument of power.

'Dienen als' + nominative.

Die Unmöglichkeit der Vergebung war das zentrale Thema des Romans.

The impossibility of forgiveness was the central theme of the novel.

Genitive construction.

Man muss zwischen emotionaler und formaler Vergebung unterscheiden.

One must distinguish between emotional and formal forgiveness.

'Unterscheiden zwischen' + dative.

Die Vergebung kann als Akt der moralischen Überlegenheit gesehen werden.

Forgiveness can be seen as an act of moral superiority.

Passive with 'als' + nominative.

Ihre Vergebung war an strikte Bedingungen geknüpft.

Her forgiveness was tied to strict conditions.

Past participle 'geknüpft' with 'an'.

Es bedarf großer innerer Stärke, um echte Vergebung zu gewähren.

It requires great inner strength to grant true forgiveness.

'Es bedarf' + genitive.

Die Dialektik von Schuld und Vergebung prägt die abendländische Kultur.

The dialectic of guilt and forgiveness shapes Western culture.

High-level abstract vocabulary.

Hannah Arendt betrachtete die Vergebung als notwendiges Korrektiv des Handelns.

Hannah Arendt viewed forgiveness as a necessary corrective to action.

Complex philosophical statement.

Die Vergebung entzieht der Rache ihre moralische Legitimation.

Forgiveness withdraws from revenge its moral legitimacy.

Dative 'der Rache' + accusative 'Legitimation'.

Inwieweit ist Vergebung nach systemischem Unrecht überhaupt möglich?

To what extent is forgiveness even possible after systemic injustice?

Interrogative 'Inwieweit'.

Die Vergebung fungiert hier als Katalysator für gesellschaftlichen Wandel.

Forgiveness functions here as a catalyst for social change.

Scientific metaphor 'Katalysator'.

Eine bedingungslose Vergebung wird oft als utopisch kritisiert.

Unconditional forgiveness is often criticized as utopian.

Adjective 'bedingungslose'.

Die sakrale Dimension der Vergebung transzendiert das rein Zwischenmenschliche.

The sacral dimension of forgiveness transcends the purely interpersonal.

Verb 'transzendieren'.

Manche Taten entziehen sich aufgrund ihrer Monstrosität jeglicher Vergebung.

Some acts, due to their monstrosity, elude any forgiveness.

'Sich entziehen' + dative.

자주 쓰는 조합

um Vergebung bitten

Vergebung gewähren

Vergebung finden

gegenseitige Vergebung

völlige Vergebung

göttliche Vergebung

Vergebung der Sünden

Vergebung der Schulden

auf Vergebung hoffen

keine Vergebung kennen

자주 쓰는 구문

Ich bitte um Vergebung.

— A very formal way to say 'I beg your pardon' or 'I ask for forgiveness.'

Ich bitte um Vergebung für mein Verhalten gestern Abend.

Vergebung ist der Weg zum Frieden.

— A philosophical statement about the benefits of letting go of anger.

Er sagte oft: Vergebung ist der Weg zum Frieden.

Sich selbst Vergebung schenken.

— To practice self-forgiveness.

Du musst lernen, dir selbst Vergebung zu schenken.

Um Vergebung flehen.

— To desperately beg for forgiveness.

Er flehte sie auf Knien um Vergebung an.

Jemandem Vergebung zuteilwerden lassen.

— To bestow forgiveness upon someone (very formal).

Der König ließ ihm Vergebung zuteilwerden.

Die Kraft der Vergebung.

— The power of forgiveness (common in self-help).

Sie unterschätzen die Kraft der Vergebung.

Keine Vergebung finden können.

— To be unable to feel forgiven or to find peace.

Trotz der Beichte konnte er keine Vergebung finden.

Vergebung ohne Reue.

— Forgiveness without remorse (from the other party).

Ist Vergebung ohne Reue überhaupt möglich?

Ein Akt der Vergebung.

— An act of forgiveness.

Das war ein großer Akt der Vergebung von ihrer Seite.

Vergebung ist eine Tugend.

— Forgiveness is a virtue.

Man lehrte uns, dass Vergebung eine Tugend sei.

자주 혼동되는 단어

Vergebung vs Vergabe

Means 'awarding' or 'allocation' (e.g., of a contract). Very similar spelling.

Vergebung vs Verzeihung

Often used interchangeably, but Verzeihung is lighter and more for social mistakes.

Vergebung vs Vergeltung

The opposite! It means 'retaliation' or 'payback'.

관용어 및 표현

"Schwamm drüber"

— Literally 'sponge over it.' It means 'let's forget about it' or 'forgiven and forgotten.'

Du hast den Termin vergessen? Schwamm drüber!

informal

"Ein Auge zudrücken"

— To turn a blind eye or be lenient.

Der Lehrer drückte bei dem Fehler ein Auge zu.

neutral

"Friedenspfeife rauchen"

— To make peace (smoke the peace pipe).

Nach dem Streit haben wir die Friedenspfeife geraucht.

informal

"Das Kriegsbeil begraben"

— To bury the hatchet.

Es ist Zeit, dass wir endlich das Kriegsbeil begraben.

neutral

"Gnade vor Recht ergehen lassen"

— To let mercy prevail over justice.

Der Chef ließ Gnade vor Recht ergehen und feuerte ihn nicht.

formal

"Jemandem den Kopf waschen"

— To give someone a piece of one's mind (before forgiving).

Ich werde ihm den Kopf waschen, aber dann ist gut.

informal

"Etwas auf sich beruhen lassen"

— To let something rest or drop the matter.

Lassen wir die Sache auf sich beruhen.

neutral

"Wieder gut Wetter machen"

— To try to get back in someone's good graces.

Er versucht nach dem Patzer wieder gut Wetter zu machen.

informal

"Ein reines Gewissen haben"

— To have a clear conscience (often after forgiveness).

Nach der Vergebung hatte er wieder ein reines Gewissen.

neutral

"Über seinen Schatten springen"

— To go beyond one's limitations (e.g., to forgive someone).

Sie musste über ihren Schatten springen, um ihm zu vergeben.

neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

Vergebung vs Vergabe

Similar prefix and root.

Vergabe is for prizes or contracts; Vergebung is for sins or mistakes.

Die Vergabe der Oscars (The awarding of the Oscars).

Vergebung vs Vergebens

Looks like an adverbial form of Vergebung.

It actually means 'in vain' or 'useless.' It has no emotional connection to forgiveness.

Alle Mühe war vergebens (All effort was in vain).

Vergebung vs Vergeuden

Similar sound.

Means 'to waste' (e.g., time or money).

Vergeude nicht deine Zeit.

Vergebung vs Vergessen

Often paired conceptually (forgive and forget).

Vergessen is to forget; Vergebung is to forgive.

Ich habe es vergessen, aber ich brauche deine Vergebung.

Vergebung vs Vergelten

Similar sound/root.

Means 'to repay' or 'to retaliate.'

Gutes mit Gutem vergelten.

문장 패턴

[Subject] [Verb] Vergebung.

Gott gibt Vergebung.

[Subject] bittet um Vergebung.

Er bittet um Vergebung.

[Subject] bittet [Person-Acc] um Vergebung.

Ich bitte dich um Vergebung.

Ohne Vergebung [Verb] [Subject]...

Ohne Vergebung gibt es keinen Frieden.

[Subject] ist bereit zur Vergebung.

Sie ist endlich zur Vergebung bereit.

Die Vergebung von [Noun-Gen]...

Die Vergebung der Sünden ist wichtig.

Es bedarf [Noun-Gen], um Vergebung zu [Verb].

Es bedarf der Reue, um Vergebung zu finden.

Inwieweit [Verb] die Vergebung [Noun-Acc]?

Inwieweit beeinflusst die Vergebung den Heilungsprozess?

어휘 가족

명사

Vergeber (forgiver)

Vergebungsbereitschaft (willingness to forgive)

Sündenvergebung (forgiveness of sins)

Schuldvergebung (forgiveness of debt/guilt)

동사

vergeben (to forgive / to award / to be taken)

wiedervergeben (to forgive again)

형용사

vergebend (forgiving)

vergeben (taken/forgiven)

vergebungsbereit (ready to forgive)

unvergeblich (unforgivable - though 'unverzeihlich' is more common)

사용법

frequency

Common in literature, religion, and serious discussion; rare in casual daily errands.

자주 하는 실수

Using 'der Vergebung' as the nominative. → die Vergebung
Nouns ending in -ung are always feminine. 'Der' would be the dative or genitive form.
Saying 'Ich bitte Vergebung.' → Ich bitte um Vergebung.
The verb 'bitten' requires the preposition 'um' when you are asking for a thing or concept.
Using 'Vergebung' for a small social error. → Entschuldigung / Verzeihung
Vergebung is too heavy for minor things like being 5 minutes late. It sounds dramatic and unnatural.
Confusing 'Vergebung' with 'Vergabe'. → Vergebung (forgiveness) / Vergabe (awarding)
Learners often mix these up because they look similar. 'Vergabe' is for contracts and prizes.
Pronouncing the 'V' as in English 'Vase'. → Pronounce it like an 'F'.
In German, the 'V' at the start of 'Ver-' is always an 'F' sound.

팁

The -ung Rule

Always remember that nouns ending in '-ung' are feminine. This will help you choose the right article (die) and adjective endings automatically.

Don't Overuse It

Germans value 'Verhältnismäßigkeit' (proportionality). Using 'Vergebung' for a spilled coffee makes you sound insincere or overly dramatic. Save it for the big stuff.

Learn the Verb Pair

Always learn 'Vergebung' (noun) alongside 'vergeben' (verb). Knowing that the verb takes the dative for the person ('Ich vergebe dir') is crucial for speaking.

Self-Forgiveness

In German, 'Selbstvergebung' is a common topic. If you are learning German for personal growth, this is a key term to look for in podcasts and books.

The 'V' is an 'F'

This is the most important rule for this word. If you say it with a 'V' sound like in 'Victory,' Germans will understand you, but it will sound very foreign.

Preposition 'Um'

When asking for forgiveness, you 'bitten um' it. Never forget the 'um.' It's the bridge that makes the sentence work.

Vergebung vs. Verzeihung

Think of 'Verzeihung' as 'I'm sorry' and 'Vergebung' as 'I seek your pardon.' One is a social lubricant, the other is a moral act.

Church Bell Context

If you hear this word in a movie with church bells or a priest, it's almost certainly the theological 'forgiveness of sins.'

Give it away

The root 'geben' (give) is your best friend. You are giving away the right to be mad. That's 'Ver-gebung'.

Poetic German

German poetry loves the word 'Vergebung.' If you read Rilke or Goethe, look for how they use it to describe the human soul.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Ver-geben' as 'For-giving.' The 'Ver' is like 'For' and 'geben' is 'give.' You are giving away the anger for-ever.

시각적 연상

Imagine someone holding a heavy stone (the grudge) and then opening their hand to 'give' it away to the wind. That 'giving away' is Ver-gebung.

Word Web

Herz Frieden Schuld Gott Freundschaft Tränen Liebe Neuanfang

챌린지

Try to use 'Vergebung' in a sentence describing a historical event and then in a sentence about a fictional character's internal struggle.

어원

Derived from the Middle High German word 'vergeben,' which comes from Old High German 'fargeban.' It is a combination of the prefix 'ver-' and the verb 'geben.'

원래 의미: The original meaning was to 'give away' or 'renounce.' In a moral sense, it meant renouncing the right to revenge or payment for a wrong.

Germanic (Indo-European). Cognate with English 'forgive' (for- + give).

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using 'Vergebung' in the context of German history; it is a sensitive and deeply debated topic.

English speakers often use 'forgiveness' casually. In German, 'Vergebung' is much more formal. Don't use it for small things like being late for coffee.

The Lord's Prayer (Vaterunser): '...und vergib uns unsere Schuld...' Simon Wiesenthal's book 'Die Sonnenblume' (The Sunflower) discusses the limits of Vergebung. Friedrich Schiller's plays often deal with Vergebung and moral redemption.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Religious Service

Vergebung der Sünden
Gott schenkt Vergebung
um göttliche Vergebung beten
Absolution erhalten

Relationship Conflict

Ich bitte dich um Vergebung
Kannst du mir vergeben?
Wir brauchen Vergebung
einen Neuanfang wagen

Legal/Formal Petitions

ein Gnadengesuch einreichen
um Vergebung der Restschuld bitten
Begnadigung durch den Staat
Erlass der Strafe

Psychology/Therapy

der Prozess der Vergebung
Selbstvergebung lernen
Groll loslassen
emotionale Heilung

Literature/Film

ein Drama um Schuld und Vergebung
die Suche nach Vergebung
unverzeihliche Taten
das Motiv der Vergebung

대화 시작하기

"Glaubst du, dass Vergebung für jedes Verbrechen möglich ist?"

"Ist es wichtiger, anderen zu vergeben oder sich selbst?"

"Was ist für dich der Unterschied zwischen Verzeihung und Vergebung?"

"Wann hast du das letzte Mal jemanden aufrichtig um Vergebung gebeten?"

"Kann Vergebung eine Gesellschaft nach einem Krieg wirklich heilen?"

일기 주제

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der dir die Vergebung besonders schwergefallen ist. Warum war das so?

Was bedeutet Selbstvergebung für dich und wie kann man sie erreichen?

Reflektiere über die Rolle der Vergebung in deiner Familie oder Kultur.

Stelle dir vor, du triffst jemanden aus deiner Vergangenheit, dem du noch nicht vergeben hast. Was würdest du sagen?

Analysiere ein Buch oder einen Film, in dem Vergebung ein wichtiges Thema ist.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No, that would sound very strange. Use 'Entschuldigung' or 'Verzeihung.' 'Vergebung' is for deep moral issues, not for bumping into someone. It is much too heavy for public transport.

While it has strong religious roots, it is used widely in secular psychology and everyday serious conversations. It describes the emotional act of letting go of a grudge, regardless of faith.

Vergebung is one-sided (you forgive). Versöhnung (reconciliation) is two-sided (you both agree to be friends again). You can grant Vergebung even if the other person doesn't talk to you.

You say 'Ich vergebe mir selbst' or 'Ich schenke mir selbst Vergebung.' The latter is more poetic and common in self-help contexts.

Very rarely. You might see it in theological pluralism or very specific legal contexts, but 99% of the time, it is used in the singular as an abstract concept.

Usually 'um' when asking: 'Ich bitte um Vergebung.' Or 'für' when specifying the reason: 'Vergebung für meine Taten.' Use 'von' for the source: 'Die Vergebung von Gott.'

Yes! If you see a sign on a chair saying 'Vergeben,' it means the seat is reserved or taken. This is a very common non-emotional use of the verb form.

Yes, it is one of the strongest words for 'sorry' in German. It implies a total clearing of the emotional debt. It's used in life-changing moments.

Etymologically yes, but in meaning, no. 'Vergebens' means 'in vain.' Don't use it to mean 'forgivingly'—that's a common mistake!

It is a compound noun meaning 'forgiveness of sins.' It is a key term in Christian theology and is heard frequently in German churches.

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기

셀프 테스트 191 질문

writing

Schreibe einen kurzen Dialog zwischen zwei Freunden, die sich nach einem Streit versöhnen. Benutze das Wort 'Vergebung'.