01
absenken
to lower
To bring or move something into a lower position; to let something down.
example
Der Kranführer senkte die schwere Last langsam ab.
The crane operator slowly lowered the heavy load.
absenken
to lower
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Absenken' (to lower) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'ab' comes at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Der Pilot senkt das Flugzeug langsam ab.
The pilot slowly lowers the airplane.
Active vs. reflexive
The use of the verb changes its meaning. When a person or machine actively 'etwas absenkt' (lowers something), it needs an accusative object. When 'sich etwas absenkt' (something sinks/subsides), the process happens by itself and the verb is reflexive.
EXAMPLE
Wir senken die Preise für alle Produkte ab.
We are lowering the prices for all products.
Context clue
The object helps you recognize the meaning. If it is a concrete, physical object like 'eine Last' (a load) or 'ein Boot' (a boat), the literal meaning is intended. With abstract objects like 'Temperatur' (temperature), 'Niveau' (level), or 'Stimme' (voice), it is about a reduction.
EXAMPLE
Die Rettungskräfte senkten die Trage vorsichtig ab.
The rescue workers carefully lowered the stretcher.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning 'reduzieren' (to reduce), 'absenken' (to lower/reduce) is often combined with abstract nouns. Typical examples are: 'die Temperatur absenken' (to lower the temperature), 'die Preise absenken' (to lower prices), 'das Fieber absenken' (to bring down a fever), or 'die Erwartungen absenken' (to lower expectations).
EXAMPLE
Die Zentralbank hat den Leitzins nicht abgesenkt.
The central bank did not lower the key interest rate.
Compare with
absenken vs erhöhen
to increase
'erhöhen' and 'absenken' describe opposite directions. You use 'erhöhen' when a value, quantity, or level becomes larger, or when something is moved upward. You use 'absenken' when something is made lower, for example a price, a temperature, or a water level, or when something is physically moved downward. In practical terms: more or higher is 'erhöhen'; less or lower is 'absenken'.
absenken
Beim Termin hat die Ärztin die Dosis des Medikaments abgesenkt.
At the appointment, the doctor lowered the dose of the medication.
erhöhen
Die Stadt erhöht im nächsten Jahr die Gebühren für das Parken.
The city is increasing parking fees next year.
In real life
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