B2 Idiom Neutral

Den Teufelskreis durchbrechen

To break the vicious cycle

Meaning

To stop a recurring pattern of negative events or behavior.

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Cultural Background

Germans value efficiency and directness; this phrase is often used in professional settings to signal a desire for change. Similar to Germany, but often used in more social-democratic political discourse regarding social welfare. Used in corporate and political contexts, often emphasizing stability and long-term solutions. The phrase is universally understood and carries a serious, analytical tone.

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Use with 'müssen'

This phrase is almost always used with 'müssen' (must) or 'wollen' (want) because it implies a necessary action.

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Context matters

Use it to sound analytical and proactive. It's a great phrase for job interviews or serious discussions.

Meaning

To stop a recurring pattern of negative events or behavior.

💡

Use with 'müssen'

This phrase is almost always used with 'müssen' (must) or 'wollen' (want) because it implies a necessary action.

🎯

Context matters

Use it to sound analytical and proactive. It's a great phrase for job interviews or serious discussions.

Test Yourself

Fill in the missing verb.

Wir müssen den Teufelskreis endlich ____.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: durchbrechen

The correct verb for breaking a cycle is 'durchbrechen'.

Which sentence is correct?

Choose the best sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Ich habe den Teufelskreis durchbrochen.

'Durchbrechen' is the correct verb for this idiom.

🎉 Score: /2

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

2 exercises
Fill in the missing verb. Fill Blank B1

Wir müssen den Teufelskreis endlich ____.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: durchbrechen

The correct verb for breaking a cycle is 'durchbrechen'.

Which sentence is correct? Choose B2

Choose the best sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Ich habe den Teufelskreis durchbrochen.

'Durchbrechen' is the correct verb for this idiom.

🎉 Score: /2

Frequently Asked Questions

2 questions

No, it is strictly for negative patterns. For positive ones, use 'Tugendkreis' (virtuous circle).

It is neutral. It works in both casual and formal settings.

Related Phrases

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Aus dem Teufelskreis ausbrechen

similar

To escape the cycle.

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Einen Ausweg finden

similar

To find a way out.

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Den Knoten durchschlagen

similar

To solve a complex problem decisively.

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