verzichten vs entsagen
German word comparison
Listen to verzichten
Listen to entsagen
| verzichten | entsagen |
|---|---|
ver-ZICH-ten verb | ent-ZAH-gen verb |
| to give up, forgo, or do without something | to renounce; to forgo; to abstain from |
How they differ
Entsagen is closer to a conscious, often lasting renunciation and can sound more solemn or elevated than verzichten. It is less about a one-time decision and more about formally or morally giving something up, such as worldly pleasures or a claim.
When to use each
When to use verzichten: Use verzichten for everyday choices, refusals, or waiving something practical.
When to use entsagen: Use entsagen when you want a stronger, more literary or serious sense of renunciation.
Side-by-side examples
- Er verzichtet auf Alkohol während der Woche.
(He forgoes alcohol during the week.) - Sie entsagte dem Luxusleben.
(She renounced a life of luxury.)
Register & nuance: Entsagen is more formal, literary, and less common in spoken German than verzichten.