German word

unterschreiben

Pronunciation

IPA/ˌʊntɐˈʃʁaɪ̯bən/

Meaning

  • verbsign

Example

Ich unterschreibe den Vertrag morgen.

I will sign the contract tomorrow.

Illustration for unterschreiben (sign)

More examples

Lies die Vollmacht, bevor du sie unterschreibst.

Read the power of attorney before you sign it.

Core concept

A name added below written terms as the visible link between a person and the document.

Common phrases

  • ein Formular unterschreiben

    sign a form

  • eine Vollmacht unterschreiben

    sign a power of attorney

  • einen Scheck unterschreiben

    sign a check

Similar words

unterzeichnen: Adding a signature to a contract or other document as formal approval.
bestätigen: Acknowledging that something was received or that its contents are true, orally or in writing.
signieren: Leaving a personal signature on a book, photograph, or similar item.

Definition in German

Seinen Namen unter ein Schriftstück setzen, um dieses zu bestätigen oder rechtsverbindlich zu machen.

Word origin

Unterschreiben is a transparent German compound of unter ('under') and schreiben ('write'), referring to writing a name under written terms.

Usage tips

  • Unterschreiben takes the document as a direct accusative object, as in 'einen Vertrag unterschreiben', not as a dative object.

Other meanings

  • sign one's nameverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word