verstreichen in 30 Seconds
- Verstreichen: Time passing or elapsing.
- Commonly used for deadlines and periods of time.
- Past participle: verstrichen. Auxiliary verb: sein.
- Not used for active waiting; time passes on its own.
The German verb verstreichen is a very common and useful word that describes the passing of time. It's often used when talking about periods of time, deadlines, or simply the natural progression of events. Think of it as time moving forward, slipping away, or going by. It carries a sense of time continuing its course, often without active intervention. You'll encounter this verb frequently in everyday conversations, news reports, and written texts, especially when discussing schedules, history, or personal experiences related to time. It’s a verb that adds a nuanced layer to how we describe the temporal aspect of our lives and the world around us.
- Core Meaning
- Time passing or elapsing.
- Common Contexts
- Deadlines, waiting periods, historical periods, general passage of time.
Die Zeit verstreicht so schnell, wenn man Spaß hat.
Bis zum Ablauf der Frist sind noch drei Tage verstrichen.
- Nuance
- While it means 'to elapse', it often implies a continuous, sometimes unnoticed, movement of time. It's not about actively doing something, but about time's natural progression.
- Usage Example
- 'Die Jahre sind schnell verstrichen.' (The years have passed quickly.)
Ein ganzes Jahr ist verstrichen, seit wir uns das letzte Mal gesehen haben.
Using verstreichen correctly involves understanding its grammatical behavior and the contexts in which it naturally fits. As an intransitive verb, it doesn't require a direct object; the subject is the time itself or a period of time. The most common subjects are nouns like 'Zeit' (time), 'Jahre' (years), 'Tage' (days), 'Stunden' (hours), 'Monate' (months), or abstract concepts related to time passing, such as 'eine Frist' (a deadline). The verb conjugates like a regular weak verb in the present tense (ich verstreiche, du verstreichst, er/sie/es verstreicht, wir verstreichen, ihr verstreicht, sie/Sie verstreichen) and forms its past participle as verstrichen. This past participle is crucial for forming perfect tenses (Perfekt, Plusquamperfekt).
- Basic Structure
- [Time Period] + verstreichen (conjugated)
- Example in Present Tense
- Die Zeit verstreicht.Translation: Time elapses.
Die Wochen verstreichen wie im Flug.
- Using the Past Participle (Perfekt)
- Since 'verstreichen' describes a state change or movement of time, it uses 'sein' as its auxiliary verb in perfect tenses.Structure: [Subject] + sein + [Time Period] + verstrichen.
- Example in Perfekt
- Es ist viel Zeit verstrichen.Translation: A lot of time has elapsed.
Seit dem letzten Treffen sind zehn Jahre verstrichen.
- With Deadlines
- 'Verstreichen' is frequently used with deadlines or time limits.
- Example
- Die Frist ist am Freitag verstrichen.Translation: The deadline elapsed on Friday.
Ohne Vorwarnung ist die Zeit für die Abgabe der Arbeit schnell verstrichen.
You'll hear verstreichen in a wide array of situations in German-speaking countries, reflecting its fundamental role in describing the flow of time. News reports are a prime place; you might hear about historical periods verstrichen, or how much time has verstrichen since a significant event. In official contexts, like legal or administrative matters, it's used to discuss deadlines that have verstrichen or the time allowed for a process. In more personal conversations, people use it to reflect on how quickly life is passing, how much time has verstrichen since they last saw a friend, or how long they've been waiting for something. Educational settings also feature it, particularly in history or literature classes when discussing the passage of time within a narrative or historical period. Even in casual discussions about plans or waiting for something, the concept of time verstreichen is ever-present. Listen for it when people talk about:
- News and Current Events
- Discussions about anniversaries, the duration of conflicts, or the time elapsed since a political decision.Example: 'Seit dem Ende des Krieges sind viele Jahre verstrichen.' (Many years have elapsed since the end of the war.)
Die Zeit bis zur nächsten Wahl verstreicht langsam.
- Personal Reflections
- Conversations about aging, how quickly children grow up, or how long it's been since a memorable event.Example: 'Kaum zu glauben, dass schon wieder ein Jahrzehnt verstrichen ist.' (Hard to believe that another decade has already elapsed.)
Ein ganzer Nachmittag verstrich, ohne dass wir etwas Produktives tun konnten.
- Administrative and Legal Contexts
- Discussions about expired documents, deadlines for applications, or statutes of limitations.Example: 'Die Frist für die Einreichung des Antrags ist bereits verstrichen.' (The deadline for submitting the application has already elapsed.)
Die Zeit für eine Berufung ist unwiderruflich verstrichen.
Learners of German sometimes make mistakes with verstreichen, often due to confusion with similar-sounding words or misunderstanding its intransitive nature. One common pitfall is trying to use it transitively, as if it takes a direct object, or using the wrong auxiliary verb in past tenses. Another issue can be confusing it with verbs that imply more active control over time or events, whereas 'verstreichen' is about time's natural, passive progression.
- Mistake 1: Wrong Auxiliary Verb
- Incorrect: 'Die Zeit hat verstreichen.' (The time has elapsed.)Correct: 'Die Zeit ist verstreichen.' (The time has elapsed.)Explanation: Like verbs of motion or change of state, 'verstreichen' uses 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in perfect tenses because it describes the movement or passing of time, not an action performed on an object.
Falsch: Er hat die Zeit verstreichen lassen.
- Mistake 2: Transitive Use
- Incorrect: 'Wir verstreichen die Frist.' (We elapse the deadline.)Correct: 'Die Frist ist verstrichen.' (The deadline has elapsed.) or 'Wir haben die Frist verpasst.' (We missed the deadline.)Explanation: 'Verstreichen' describes the passive passing of time or a deadline. You don't actively 'elapse' a deadline; the deadline itself elapses. If you want to talk about failing to meet a deadline, use 'verpassen' (to miss).
Falsch: Ich verstreiche meine Urlaubstage.
- Mistake 3: Confusing with Similar Concepts
- Incorrect: Using 'verstreichen' when a verb implying active waiting or enduring is needed.Correct: 'Ich warte auf den Bus.' (I am waiting for the bus.) vs. 'Die Wartezeit ist verstrichen.' (The waiting time has elapsed.)Explanation: 'Verstreichen' describes the passage of time itself, not the subjective experience of waiting or enduring that time. When you are actively waiting, you use verbs like 'warten' (to wait) or 'ausharren' (to endure).
While verstreichen is specific in its meaning of time elapsing, several other German words and phrases can be used to express related concepts, depending on the nuance you want to convey. Understanding these alternatives helps in choosing the most precise word for a given situation.
- Alternative: vergehen
- vergehen (to pass, to go by)Comparison: 'Vergehen' is a more general term for time passing. It can be used interchangeably with 'verstreichen' in many contexts, but 'vergehen' can also refer to emotions fading or things decaying. 'Verstreichen' specifically focuses on the linear progression of time, often in relation to deadlines or durations.Example: 'Die Zeit vergeht schnell.' (Time passes quickly.) vs. 'Die Frist ist verstrichen.' (The deadline has elapsed.)
Die Jahre vergehen.
- Alternative: ablaufen
- ablaufen (to expire, to run out, to proceed)Comparison: 'Ablaufen' is often used for things that have a set duration and then cease to be valid, like contracts, visas, or deadlines. It's more about reaching an end point than the continuous passing of time. It can also mean 'to proceed' or 'to happen'.Example: 'Mein Vertrag ist letztes Jahr abgelaufen.' (My contract expired last year.) vs. 'Die Frist ist verstrichen.' (The deadline has elapsed – implying time has passed, not necessarily that it's officially over yet, though it often leads to that.)
Die Garantie ist abgelaufen.
- Alternative: verpassen
- verpassen (to miss)Comparison: 'Verpassen' is used when you fail to take advantage of an opportunity or meet a deadline. It's an active failure on your part, whereas 'verstreichen' is about time passing regardless of your actions.Example: 'Ich habe den Zug verpasst.' (I missed the train.) vs. 'Die Zeit für die Anmeldung ist verstrichen.' (The time for registration has elapsed.)
Wir haben die Gelegenheit verpasst.
- Phrase: Zeit vergeht wie im Flug
- Zeit vergeht wie im Flug (Time flies)Comparison: This is an idiom that expresses how quickly time seems to pass when one is enjoying themselves. It uses 'vergehen' but conveys a similar sentiment to how one might feel when time has 'verstrichen' quickly.Example: 'Wenn man Spaß hat, vergeht die Zeit wie im Flug.' (When you're having fun, time flies.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The original meaning of 'streichen' as 'to stroke' or 'to move smoothly' is still visible in other German words like 'Streichelzoo' (petting zoo) or 'Streusel' (crumble topping). The transition to 'time elapsing' shows how verbs can evolve in meaning over centuries, often through metaphorical extension.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the initial 'v' as in English 'v'. It should be an 'f' sound.
- Mispronouncing the 'ch' sound, making it too soft or like 'k'.
- Incorrectly stressing a different syllable.
Difficulty Rating
B1 level texts will frequently use 'verstreichen' in contexts related to deadlines, personal reflections on time, and historical periods. Understanding its core meaning and common collocations is key.
Using 'verstreichen' correctly in writing requires attention to the auxiliary verb 'sein' in past tenses and avoiding transitive usage.
Conjugating the verb and using it naturally in conversation, especially when discussing timeframes or missed opportunities, is important for B1 speakers.
Recognizing 'verstreichen' and its past participle 'verstrichen' in spoken German is crucial for understanding temporal references.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Auxiliary Verb 'sein' in Perfect Tenses
'Verstreichen' uses 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in the Perfekt and Plusquamperfekt tenses because it describes a change of state or movement. Example: 'Die Zeit ist verstrichen.' (Time has elapsed.)
Intransitive Verbs
'Verstreichen' is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object. The subject is the time itself. Example: 'Die Tage verstreichen.' (The days elapse.) You cannot say 'Ich verstreiche die Tage.'
Konjunktiv II for Hypotheticals
In hypothetical or reported speech, the Konjunktiv II might be used. Example: 'Er befürchtete, dass die Gelegenheit verstreichen würde.' (He feared that the opportunity would elapse.)
Subordinate Clauses with 'wenn' and 'nachdem'
Time clauses often use conjunctions like 'wenn' (when) or 'nachdem' (after). Example: 'Wir können beginnen, nachdem die Wartezeit verstrichen ist.' (We can begin after the waiting time has elapsed.)
Use of Adverbs
Adverbs often modify how time 'verstreicht'. Example: 'Die Zeit verstreicht schnell.' (Time elapses quickly.) or 'Die Tage verstreichen langsam.' (The days elapse slowly.)
Examples by Level
Die Zeit verstreicht.
Time elapses.
Simple present tense, intransitive verb.
Ein Tag verstreicht.
A day elapses.
Singular subject with present tense verb.
Die Stunde verstreicht.
The hour elapses.
Focus on a specific unit of time.
Es verstreicht.
It elapses.
Impersonal use, common with 'es'.
Viele Jahre verstreichen.
Many years elapse.
Plural subject, present tense.
Die Zeit verstreicht schnell.
Time elapses quickly.
Adverb modifying the verb.
Die Ferien verstreichen.
The holidays elapse.
Specific period of time.
Nur wenig Zeit verstreicht.
Only little time elapses.
Quantifier modifying the subject.
Die Zeit verstreicht so schnell, wenn man Spaß hat.
Time elapses so quickly when one is having fun.
Subordinate clause introduced by 'wenn'.
Seit dem letzten Treffen sind drei Monate verstreichen.
Three months have elapsed since the last meeting.
Perfekt tense with 'sein'.
Die Frist für die Bewerbung ist gestern verstreichen.
The deadline for the application elapsed yesterday.
Specific deadline context, Perfekt tense.
Wird die Zeit für das Projekt bald verstreichen?
Will the time for the project soon elapse?
Future tense question.
Ein ganzes Jahr ist verstreichen, seit wir hierher gezogen sind.
A whole year has elapsed since we moved here.
Longer duration, Perfekt tense.
Ohne es zu merken, verstreicht die Zeit.
Without noticing it, time elapses.
Gerundial phrase 'ohne es zu merken'.
Der Sommer verstreicht langsam, aber sicher.
The summer elapses slowly, but surely.
Adverbs describing the pace of time.
Nachdem die Wartezeit verstreichen, können wir beginnen.
After the waiting time has elapsed, we can begin.
Subordinate clause with 'nachdem'.
Die Jahre verstreichen wie im Flug, besonders wenn man jung ist.
The years elapse like in flight (very quickly), especially when one is young.
Idiomatic expression 'wie im Flug' combined with 'verstreichen'.
Es ist eine lange Zeit verstreichen, bis die Ergebnisse bekannt gegeben wurden.
A long time elapsed until the results were announced.
Past perfect (Plusquamperfekt) implied context, focus on duration.
Er bemerkte nicht, wie schnell die Stunden verstreichen, während er arbeitete.
He didn't notice how quickly the hours elapsed while he was working.
Indirect question within a sentence.
Wir müssen sicherstellen, dass die Frist nicht ungenutzt verstreichen.
We must ensure that the deadline does not elapse unused.
Modal verb 'müssen' and negation.
Viele historische Epochen sind seitdem verstreichen.
Many historical epochs have elapsed since then.
Historical context, Perfekt tense.
Die Gelegenheit, etwas zu ändern, ist schnell verstreichen.
The opportunity to change something has quickly elapsed.
Abstract opportunity, Perfekt tense.
Man kann die Zeit nicht zurückdrehen, wenn sie einmal verstreichen ist.
One cannot turn back time once it has elapsed.
Conditional statement, emphasizing irreversibility.
Die letzten Minuten vor dem Wettkampf verstreichen unter großer Anspannung.
The last minutes before the competition elapse under great tension.
Describing a tense period of time.
Die Zeit, die zur Verfügung stand, schien unendlich, doch sie verstrich schneller als erwartet.
The time that was available seemed infinite, yet it elapsed faster than expected.
Contrast between perception and reality of time.
Nachdem die vereinbarte Frist unbemerkt verstrichen war, mussten wir neue Verhandlungen aufnehmen.
After the agreed deadline had elapsed unnoticed, we had to enter into new negotiations.
Plusquamperfekt tense, consequence of time passing.
Er beklagte, dass die besten Jahre seines Lebens unproduktiv verstreichen würden.
He lamented that the best years of his life would elapse unproductively.
Konjunktiv II for hypothetical or reported speech, future perspective.
Die gesetzliche Widerrufsfrist ist nach 14 Tagen verstrichen.
The statutory withdrawal period has elapsed after 14 days.
Legal context, specific time frame.
Es ist erstaunlich, wie schnell ganze Generationen verstreichen und neue Kulturen entstehen.
It is astonishing how quickly entire generations elapse and new cultures emerge.
Broader societal and historical perspective.
Die Möglichkeit, die Situation noch zu retten, drohte zu verstreichen.
The possibility of still saving the situation threatened to elapse.
Imminent loss of opportunity.
Man sollte die wertvolle Zeit nicht einfach verstreichen lassen, sondern sie aktiv gestalten.
One should not simply let valuable time elapse, but actively shape it.
Contrast with 'verstreichen lassen' (to let time pass).
Die Stunden vor der Prüfung verstreichen oft quälend langsam, obwohl man weiß, dass sie bald vorbei sind.
The hours before the exam often elapse agonizingly slowly, even though one knows they are soon over.
Subjective experience of time vs. objective passage.
Die Zeit, die wir zur Verfügung hatten, war knapp bemessen, und es war unerlässlich, dass sie nicht ungenutzt verstrich.
The time we had available was tightly measured, and it was essential that it did not elapse unused.
Complex sentence structure, emphasis on necessity.
Die historische Kluft zwischen den Ereignissen schien unüberbrückbar, da so viele Jahre verstrichen waren.
The historical gap between the events seemed unbridgeable, as so many years had elapsed.
Historical analysis, emphasis on the impact of elapsed time.
Er fühlte, wie seine Jugend unaufhaltsam verstrich, während er sich in akademischen Studien verlor.
He felt his youth elapsing unstoppably as he lost himself in academic studies.
Melancholic reflection on the passage of youth.
Die Möglichkeit, eine diplomatische Lösung zu finden, drohte zu verstreichen, da die Spannungen zunahmen.
The possibility of finding a diplomatic solution threatened to elapse as tensions increased.
Political and diplomatic context, impending loss.
Die Ära des analogen Films ist unwiderruflich verstrichen, ersetzt durch die digitale Revolution.
The era of analog film has irrevocably elapsed, replaced by the digital revolution.
Historical technological shift, definitive end.
Es ist eine Binsenweisheit, dass die Zeit, einmal verstrichen, nie wiederkehrt.
It is a truism that time, once elapsed, never returns.
Philosophical reflection, common saying.
Die letzte Chance, die negativen Auswirkungen des Klimawandels zu mildern, scheint schnell zu verstreichen.
The last chance to mitigate the negative effects of climate change seems to be quickly elapsing.
Environmental and urgent context.
Die Phase des Experimentierens verstrich, und nun war es an der Zeit, die Ergebnisse zu konsolidieren.
The phase of experimentation elapsed, and now it was time to consolidate the results.
Process-oriented description, shift in stages.
Die Zeitspanne, die zur Verfügung stand, war so komprimiert, dass jede Sekunde, die ungenutzt verstrich, als ein persönlicher Affront empfunden wurde.
The period of time that was available was so compressed that every second that elapsed unused was perceived as a personal affront.
Highly nuanced and sophisticated expression of frustration with time.
Die historischen Parallemen, die sich aus der langen Zeitspanne ergaben, die zwischen den beiden Konflikten verstrichen war, zeugten von einer zyklischen Natur der menschlichen Geschichte.
The historical parallels that arose from the long period of time that had elapsed between the two conflicts testified to a cyclical nature of human history.
Academic discourse, complex historical analysis.
Er erlebte ein tiefes existentielles Unbehagen, da er das Gefühl hatte, seine kostbarste Ressource – die Zeit – ließe sich unaufhaltsam und ohne substanziellen Ertrag verstreichen.
He experienced a deep existential unease, as he felt that his most precious resource – time – was elapsing unstoppably and without substantial yield.
Philosophical and psychological depth, abstract concept of 'yield'.
Die Gelegenheit zur Intervention verstrich mit beunruhigender Geschwindigkeit, was die Dringlichkeit einer sofortigen Kurskorrektur unterstrich.
The opportunity for intervention elapsed with disturbing speed, underlining the urgency of an immediate course correction.
Urgency and high stakes, emphasis on speed and consequence.
Die Ära der unangefochtenen Hegemonie war unwiderruflich verstrichen, und die Welt trat in eine neue multipolare Ordnung ein.
The era of unchallenged hegemony had irrevocably elapsed, and the world was entering a new multipolar order.
Geopolitical analysis, definitive historical transition.
Es ist eine bittere Erkenntnis, dass die uns zugewiesene Lebenszeit, so kostbar sie auch sein mag, letztlich doch nur eine begrenzte Menge ist, die unaufhaltsam verstreicht.
It is a bitter realization that the lifespan allotted to us, however precious it may be, is ultimately only a finite amount that elapses unstoppably.
Existential and philosophical reflection on mortality.
Die letzte verbleibende Chance, die katastrophalen Folgen des Klimawandels abzuwenden, schien mit jedem Tag, der ohne entschlossenes Handeln verstrich, schwindender zu werden.
The last remaining chance to avert the catastrophic consequences of climate change seemed to dwindle with each day that elapsed without decisive action.
High-stakes environmental discourse, emphasis on inaction and consequences.
Die Phase der theoretischen Spekulation verstrich, und die wissenschaftliche Gemeinschaft sah sich nun mit der Notwendigkeit konfrontiert, empirische Beweise zu erbringen.
The phase of theoretical speculation elapsed, and the scientific community now faced the necessity of providing empirical evidence.
Scientific methodology, shift from speculation to evidence.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Time is passing/elapsing.
Manchmal fühlt es sich an, als ob die Zeit einfach nur verstreicht.
— The years pass by very quickly.
Kaum zu glauben, dass die Jahre wie im Flug verstreichen, wenn man älter wird.
— The deadline has elapsed/passed.
Leider ist die Frist für die Anmeldung bereits verstrichen.
— A lot of time has elapsed.
Seit unserem letzten Treffen ist viel Zeit verstrichen.
— How quickly time passes!
Wenn man Spaß hat, merkt man gar nicht, wie schnell die Zeit verstreicht!
— The days are passing slowly.
In der Wartezeit verstreichen die Tage manchmal sehr langsam.
— The opportunity is passing/slipping away.
Wir müssen handeln, sonst verstreicht die Gelegenheit.
— The hours are passing.
Während des Vortrags verstreichen die Stunden ohne Unterbrechung.
— After X has elapsed...
Nachdem die vereinbarte Zeit verstrichen war, konnten wir mit dem nächsten Schritt beginnen.
— Time elapses unstoppably.
Die Jugend verstreicht unaufhaltsam, aber die Erinnerungen bleiben.
Often Confused With
'Vergehen' also means time passes, but it's more general and can apply to emotions fading. 'Verstreichen' is more specific to linear time and deadlines.
'Ablaufen' means to expire or run out, like a contract. 'Verstreichen' is about the time passing, not necessarily the official end point.
'Verpassen' means to miss (a train, an opportunity). 'Verstreichen' is about time passing on its own, not about an active failure to act.
Idioms & Expressions
— To let time pass by; to do nothing while time goes by.
Er saß nur da und ließ die Zeit verstreichen, anstatt etwas zu tun.
General— Time is running out for us. (Similar sentiment to time elapsing quickly, but more active sense of urgency)
Wir müssen uns beeilen, die Zeit läuft uns davon!
General— A very short distance or short amount of time. (While not directly using 'verstreichen', it relates to the perception of time being short)
Das Ziel ist nur ein Katzensprung entfernt.
Informal— Time stands still. (Opposite of time elapsing)
Als er sie zum ersten Mal sah, schien die Zeit stillzustehen.
Figurative— Time is running. (Similar to 'Zeit läuft uns davon', emphasizing speed)
Wir haben nicht viel Zeit, die Zeit rennt!
General— No one is born a master; it takes time to learn. (Implies time is needed for development)
Sei geduldig mit dir, es ist noch kein Meister vom Himmel gefallen.
Proverbial— Built on sand; something unstable or unreliable. (Can relate to plans failing as time elapses)
Seine Versprechungen waren auf Sand gebaut.
Figurative— The ravages of time; the effect of time on things.
Auch das älteste Gebäude zeigt den Zahn der Zeit.
Figurative— The time is ripe. (Suggests the right moment has come, as time has elapsed to this point)
Für eine Veränderung ist die Zeit reif.
General— In the blink of an eye; very quickly. (Relates to time passing rapidly)
Er hat die Aufgabe im Handumdrehen erledigt.
InformalEasily Confused
Both verbs refer to the passage of time.
'Verstreichen' specifically refers to the linear progression of time, often associated with deadlines or fixed durations. 'Vergehen' is a broader term for time passing, and can also be used for emotions fading or things deteriorating. For example, 'Die Zeit verstreicht' (Time elapses) is common for deadlines, while 'Die Zeit vergeht schnell' (Time passes quickly) is more general, and 'Die Hoffnung vergeht' (Hope fades) uses 'vergehen' for emotions.
Die Frist ist verstrichen. (The deadline has elapsed.) vs. Die Hoffnung vergeht. (Hope fades.)
Both can refer to the end of a time period.
'Ablaufen' specifically means to expire, run out, or come to an end, typically for things with a set validity like contracts, visas, or guarantees. 'Verstreichen' describes the passage of time leading up to an end or simply the continuous movement of time. For instance, 'Mein Abonnement ist abgelaufen' (My subscription has expired) uses 'ablaufen'. If you say 'Die Zeit ist verstrichen', it means time has passed, which might lead to expiration but focuses on the duration.
Die Garantie ist abgelaufen. (The warranty has expired.) vs. Die Zeit ist verstrichen. (Time has elapsed.)
Both relate to time and opportunities, but with different actions.
'Verpassen' means to miss something, like a train, an appointment, or an opportunity due to not being there or not acting in time. 'Verstreichen' describes the passive passage of time itself. You don't 'verstreichen' a deadline; the deadline 'verstreicht' (elapses) or you 'verpassen' it (miss it). Similarly, you 'verpassen' a train, but time 'verstreicht' around you.
Ich habe den Zug verpasst. (I missed the train.) vs. Die Zeit verstreicht, während ich warte. (Time elapses while I wait.)
Both deal with how time is used or passes.
'Verbringen' means to spend time, implying an active use of time. You 'verbringen' your holiday or 'verbringen' time with friends. 'Verstreichen' is about time passing on its own, without active human intervention. You can 'verbringen' time productively, or let time 'verstreichen' idly.
Ich verbringe meinen Urlaub am Meer. (I spend my vacation by the sea.) vs. Die Urlaubstage verstreichen schnell. (The vacation days elapse quickly.)
Both relate to the duration of time.
'Dauern' means to last or take time. It describes how long something continues. 'Verstreichen' describes the process of time passing. For example, 'Der Film dauert zwei Stunden' (The movie lasts two hours) uses 'dauern'. If you are observing the movie playing, you might say 'Die zwei Stunden Film dauern', or more commonly, 'Die zwei Stunden Film verstreichen'.
Die Reise dauert drei Tage. (The journey lasts three days.) vs. Die drei Tage der Reise verstreichen langsam. (The three days of the journey elapse slowly.)
Sentence Patterns
[Time Noun] verstreicht.
Die Zeit verstreicht.
[Time Noun] ist verstrichen.
Ein Jahr ist verstrichen.
[Time Noun] verstreicht [Adverb].
Die Tage verstreichen langsam.
Seit [Time Reference], ist [Time Noun] verstrichen.
Seit gestern ist viel Zeit verstrichen.
Wenn [Clause], verstreicht [Time Noun] schnell.
Wenn man Spaß hat, verstreicht die Zeit schnell.
Nachdem [Clause with past tense], ist [Time Noun] verstrichen.
Nachdem die Frist abgelaufen war, ist sie verstrichen.
Die Möglichkeit, [Infinitive Phrase], droht zu verstreichen.
Die Möglichkeit, die Prüfung zu bestehen, droht zu verstreichen.
[Time Noun] verstreicht unaufhaltsam/unbemerkt.
Die Jugend verstreicht unaufhaltsam.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
-
Using 'haben' as auxiliary verb.
→
Die Zeit <strong>ist</strong> verstrichen.
Verbs describing change of state or movement, like 'verstreichen', use 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in perfect tenses. 'Haben' is incorrect.
-
Using 'verstreichen' transitively (e.g., 'Ich verstreiche die Zeit').
→
Die Zeit <strong>verstreicht</strong>. / Ich <strong>verbringe</strong> die Zeit.
'Verstreichen' is intransitive; time elapses on its own. You don't actively 'elapse' time. Use 'verbringen' (to spend) for active use of time.
-
Confusing with 'verpassen' (to miss).
→
Die Frist <strong>ist verstrichen</strong>. (The deadline has elapsed.)
If you failed to meet the deadline, you would say 'Ich habe die Frist <strong>verpasst</strong>.' (I missed the deadline.) 'Verstreichen' is about time passing, 'verpassen' is about failing to act on time.
-
Using 'verstreichen' for emotional fading.
→
Die Hoffnung <strong>vergeht</strong>.
While both relate to passing, 'vergehen' is used for emotions fading or abstract concepts disappearing. 'Verstreichen' is primarily for the linear passage of time.
-
Incorrect conjugation in the past tense.
→
Seitdem <strong>sind</strong> viele Jahre <strong>verstrichen</strong>.
Ensure the correct past participle ('verstrichen') and auxiliary verb ('sein') are used. A common error is using the present tense or wrong auxiliary.
Tips
Auxiliary Verb is 'sein'
Remember that 'verstreichen' uses 'sein' as its auxiliary verb in perfect tenses. This is because it describes the passage or movement of time. So, it's 'Die Zeit ist verstrichen', not 'hat verstrichen'.
Deadlines and Durations
This verb is very commonly used when talking about deadlines ('Fristen') or specific durations of time like days, weeks, or years. Pay attention to these contexts when you encounter 'verstreichen'.
'Verstreichen' vs. 'Verpassen'
Don't confuse 'verstreichen' (time elapses) with 'verpassen' (to miss). Time elapses on its own; you miss a train or an opportunity. You don't 'elapse' a deadline; the deadline 'verstreicht' (elapses) or you 'verpassen' it (miss it).
Passive Passage of Time
'Verstreichen' describes the passive, natural progression of time. It's not an action you perform on time, but rather what time does by itself.
Think of 'Strich'
Connect 'verstreichen' to the German word 'Strich' (line or stroke). Imagine time drawing a continuous line forward, 'ver-stroking' its way through existence, thus elapsing.
Intransitive Verb
'Verstreichen' is an intransitive verb. This means it does not take a direct object. The subject is always the time itself (e.g., 'Die Zeit', 'Die Jahre').
'Vergehen' as a Broader Alternative
While 'verstreichen' is specific, 'vergehen' is a more general verb for time passing. In some contexts, they are interchangeable, but 'verstreichen' often implies more precision regarding duration or deadlines.
Common in Reflections
Germans often use 'verstreichen' when reflecting on how quickly life passes or how much time has gone by since a significant event. Phrases like 'Die Jahre verstreichen wie im Flug' are very common.
Versatile Register
'Verstreichen' can be used in various registers, from casual conversation ('Mann, die Zeit verstreicht echt fix!') to formal writing ('Die gesetzliche Frist ist unwiderruflich verstrichen.').
Contextual Practice
The best way to master 'verstreichen' is to use it in sentences. Try writing about your day, your week, or a past event, incorporating this verb to describe the passage of time.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine time as a smooth, continuous line, like a painter's 'stroke' ('Strich'). The prefix 'ver-' suggests this stroke is moving forward, 'ver-streichen', causing time to pass or elapse.
Visual Association
Picture an hourglass where the sand, representing time, is smoothly 'stroking' its way down, 'ver-streichen', from the top chamber to the bottom. Or visualize a long road where time is a car driving smoothly along it, 'ver-streichen'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe your daily routine using 'verstreichen' for the passing of hours and minutes. For example, 'After breakfast, the morning hours quickly verstreichen as I work.'
Word Origin
The verb 'verstreichen' is derived from the Middle High German 'verstrîchen' and Old High German 'firstrîhan'. It's a combination of the prefix 'ver-' (which often indicates a completed action or a negative connotation, though here it intensifies the action of 'streichen') and the verb 'streichen'.
Original meaning: The verb 'streichen' originally meant 'to stroke', 'to rub', or 'to move smoothly'. When combined with 'ver-', it evolved to mean 'to move over', 'to pass over', and eventually, 'to pass by' or 'to elapse', specifically in the context of time.
GermanicCultural Context
When discussing sensitive topics like loss or historical tragedies, the phrase 'die Zeit verstreicht' can be used to acknowledge the passage of time while still recognizing the enduring impact of events. It's about acknowledging both the flow of time and the significance of what has happened.
While English has 'elapse', 'pass', and 'go by' for similar concepts, the German 'verstreichen' often carries a slightly more formal or literary tone, especially when discussing deadlines or historical periods. However, it is very common in everyday speech.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing deadlines and timelines.
- Die Frist ist verstrichen.
- Wir müssen sicherstellen, dass die Zeit nicht verstreicht.
- Bis zum verstreichen der Frist...
Reflecting on the passage of time in life.
- Die Jahre verstreichen wie im Flug.
- Wie schnell die Zeit verstreicht!
- Es ist viel Zeit verstrichen.
Talking about historical periods or events.
- Seitdem sind viele Jahre verstrichen.
- Vergessene Epochen, die verstrichen sind.
- Die Zeit verstreicht, und die Welt verändert sich.
Describing waiting periods.
- Die Wartezeit verstreicht langsam.
- Nachdem die Wartezeit verstrichen war...
- Nur wenige Minuten verstreichen noch.
Expressing regret about missed opportunities.
- Die Gelegenheit verstreicht.
- Wir haben die Zeit verstreichen lassen.
- Die Chance ist verstrichen.
Conversation Starters
"Wie schnell sind die letzten Monate verstreichen, findest du nicht?"
"Denkst du manchmal darüber nach, wie schnell die Zeit verstreicht?"
"Was machst du, wenn du merkst, dass die Zeit zu schnell verstreicht?"
"Gibt es eine Frist, die bald verstreichen wird und dir Sorgen macht?"
"Wenn du einen Wunsch frei hättest, um die Zeit anzuhalten, würdest du das tun, oder lässt du sie lieber verstreichen?"
Journal Prompts
Beschreibe einen Moment, in dem du das Gefühl hattest, die Zeit sei viel zu schnell verstreichen.
Schreibe über eine Frist, die für dich wichtig war, und wie du damit umgegangen bist, als sie näher rückte oder verstrich.
Reflektiere über die letzten fünf Jahre deines Lebens. Wie viele Jahre sind seitdem verstrichen, und was hat sich verändert?
Stell dir vor, du könntest die Zeit zurückdrehen. Welche Momente würdest du nicht verstreichen lassen wollen?
Wie beeinflusst das Wissen, dass die Zeit unaufhaltsam verstreicht, deine täglichen Entscheidungen und Prioritäten?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsBoth 'verstreichen' and 'vergehen' mean time passes. However, 'verstreichen' is more specifically used for the linear progression of time, especially in relation to deadlines or durations. 'Vergehen' is a more general term and can also refer to emotions fading (e.g., 'Die Hoffnung vergeht'). Think of 'verstreichen' as time moving forward on a timeline, often towards a specific point like a deadline.
You use 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in perfect tenses (Perfekt, Plusquamperfekt) with 'verstreichen'. This is because 'verstreichen' describes a change of state or movement (time passing). For example: 'Die Zeit ist verstrichen.' (Time has elapsed.)
No, you cannot use 'verstreichen' transitively like that. 'Verstreichen' is an intransitive verb; time itself elapses. You would say 'Die Zeit verstreicht' (Time elapses) or 'Ich verbringe die Zeit' (I spend time) or 'Ich lasse die Zeit verstreichen' (I let time pass).
'Ablaufen' means to expire or run out, typically for things with a fixed validity like contracts, visas, or warranties. 'Verstreichen' describes the passage of time itself, often leading up to an expiration or simply denoting a duration. For example, 'Die Frist ist verstrichen' (The deadline has elapsed) focuses on the time passing, while 'Die Frist ist abgelaufen' (The deadline has expired) emphasizes that it's officially over.
You can say the deadline itself 'verstreicht' (elapses) or that time has elapsed before the deadline. For example: 'Die Frist ist verstrichen.' (The deadline has elapsed.) or 'Es ist nicht mehr viel Zeit, bis die Frist verstreicht.' (There isn't much time left until the deadline elapses.)
'Verstreichen' is used in both everyday conversation and more formal contexts. While it can sound slightly more formal than 'vergehen' in some situations, it's very common when discussing deadlines, historical events, or simply reflecting on how quickly time passes.
'Verstreichen lassen' means to let time pass by, to do nothing while time goes on. It implies a passive or even negligent approach to time. For example: 'Er saß nur da und ließ die Zeit verstreichen.' (He just sat there and let time pass.)
Primarily, 'verstreichen' is used for time. While metaphors exist, its core meaning is about the passage of temporal units like seconds, minutes, days, years, or periods like deadlines.
The past participle of 'verstreichen' is 'verstrichen'.
Think of 'verstreichen' as time 'stroking' or moving smoothly forward, like a line ('Strich') drawn by time. The prefix 'ver-' often intensifies this action. So, time is 'ver-stroking' its way forward, meaning it's elapsing.
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Summary
Verstreichen is a fundamental verb in German for describing the passive passage of time, especially concerning deadlines and durations. Remember to use 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in perfect tenses (e.g., 'ist verstrichen').
- Verstreichen: Time passing or elapsing.
- Commonly used for deadlines and periods of time.
- Past participle: verstrichen. Auxiliary verb: sein.
- Not used for active waiting; time passes on its own.
Auxiliary Verb is 'sein'
Remember that 'verstreichen' uses 'sein' as its auxiliary verb in perfect tenses. This is because it describes the passage or movement of time. So, it's 'Die Zeit ist verstrichen', not 'hat verstrichen'.
Deadlines and Durations
This verb is very commonly used when talking about deadlines ('Fristen') or specific durations of time like days, weeks, or years. Pay attention to these contexts when you encounter 'verstreichen'.
'Verstreichen' vs. 'Verpassen'
Don't confuse 'verstreichen' (time elapses) with 'verpassen' (to miss). Time elapses on its own; you miss a train or an opportunity. You don't 'elapse' a deadline; the deadline 'verstreicht' (elapses) or you 'verpassen' it (miss it).
Passive Passage of Time
'Verstreichen' describes the passive, natural progression of time. It's not an action you perform on time, but rather what time does by itself.
Example
Bevor die Frist verstreicht, müssen wir handeln.
Related Content
Related Phrases
More time words
abgelaufen
A2expired
ablaufen
A2to expire, run out
anfangs
A2at the beginning
aufschieben
A2to delay, to put off
außerplanmäßig
A2unscheduled, extraordinary
befristen
A2to set a deadline, to limit in time
befristet
A2limited in time, temporary
beizeiten
A2in good time
bevorstehend
A2imminent, upcoming
circa
A2approximately
