German Conversation · Level 83
59 words
German word
sperren
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈʃpɛʁən/
Meaning
- verbblock
Example
Die Polizei sperrte die Straße nach dem Unfall.
The police blocked the road after the accident.
More examples
Wegen Betrugsverdachts sperrte die Bank mein Konto.
Because of suspected fraud, the bank blocked my account.
Core concept
A gate is shut or a rule cuts off access, whether the target is a road, place, account, or service.
Common phrases
sperren das Konto
block the account
sperren die Ausfahrt
block the exit
Similar words
absperren: Securing a physical area with barriers to stop entry or exit.
blockieren: Hindering movement, progress, or use by obstructing the way.
versperren: Blocking an entrance with an object or body to prevent passage.
abschließen: Locking something to prevent entry or use.
Definition in German
etwas mit einem Hindernis, einer Sperre oder durch Maßnahmen unzugänglich machen; Zutritt oder Nutzung verhindern
Word origin
German sperren is an inherited Germanic verb recorded as Middle High German sperren and Old High German sperran for obstructing access.
Usage tips
- The separable verb absperren usually refers to cordoning off or securing a physical area, while sperren also covers accounts, cards, and services.