andauern
to last
To continue, persist, or extend over a certain period of time.
EXAMPLE
Die Bauarbeiten werden voraussichtlich noch mehrere Wochen andauern.
The construction work is expected to last for several more weeks.
andauern
to last
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Meanings
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Andauern' (to last) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses, the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Der Applaus dauerte mehrere Minuten an.
The applause lasted for several minutes.
Usage pattern
This verb is almost always used for impersonal states or events. The subject is typically something abstract like 'die Kälte' (the cold), 'die Probleme' (the problems), 'die Stille' (the silence), or 'die Verhandlungen' (the negotiations).
EXAMPLE
Die andauernde Trockenheit schadet den Pflanzen.
The ongoing drought is harming the plants.
Register and style
'Andauern' (to last) belongs more to written language or more formal usage. It is often found in news reports, reports, or official announcements.
EXAMPLE
Die Störung im Bahnverkehr wird voraussichtlich bis zum Abend andauern.
The disruption to rail traffic is expected to last until the evening.
Compare with
andauern vs ziehen
to pull / move
Both words can express that something continues over an extended period. „Sich ziehen“ often additionally suggests that the process is lengthy or taking longer than expected, whereas „andauern“ describes this neutrally. „Andauern“ is suitable for a factual statement, while „sich ziehen“ is more appropriate for a difficult or laborious process.
andauern
Die Verhandlungen dauerten wegen vieler offener Fragen mehrere Wochen an.
The negotiations lasted for several weeks because of the many outstanding questions.
ziehen
Die Verhandlungen zogen sich wegen vieler offener Fragen über Wochen.
The negotiations dragged on for weeks because of the many outstanding questions.
In real life
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