German Conversation · Level 107
57 words
German word
Verhängnis
Pronunciation
IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈhɛŋnɪs/
Meaning
- neuter noundisaster
Example
Die Folgen des Verhängnisses waren katastrophal.
The consequences of the disaster were catastrophic.
More examples
Das unerwartete Ereignis wurde für ihn zum Verhängnis.
The unexpected event proved disastrous for him.
Core concept
A doom hanging over a person or situation until it brings ruin.
Common phrases
das Verhängnis heraufbeschwören
invoke disaster
zum Verhängnis werden
prove disastrous
Similar words
Unglück: An unexpected bad event or stroke of misfortune.
Schicksal: An unchangeable fate believed to lie beyond human control.
Verderben: The destruction or ruin of a person or thing.
Katastrophe: A major disaster causing widespread damage and disruption.
Definition in German
Ein unheilvolles Ereignis oder Schicksal, das zu großem Unglück oder Untergang führt.
Word origin
The noun is formed from German verhängen, meaning to decree or impose, with -nis, a suffix that forms nouns for a state or result.
Usage tips
- Verhängnis is a strong, often literary word, while Unglück is more usual for ordinary misfortune.