01
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 laufen
to run
'laufen' and 'andauern' can both express that something is not over yet. 'laufen' is often used with contracts, deadlines, promotions, or appointments, and then means: something is still valid or still running. 'andauern' describes more generally that a state or event continues over a certain period of time. It often sounds somewhat more formal and is frequently used with problems, rain, conversations, or waiting times. 'Der Vertrag läuft noch' (the contract is still running / still valid) is more natural than 'der Vertrag dauert an'. 'Der Regen dauert an' (the rain continues) fits better than 'der Regen läuft'.
andauern
Weil der starke Regen andauert, bleiben viele Leute zu Hause.
Because the heavy rain is continuing, many people are staying home.
laufen
Der Mietvertrag läuft noch bis Ende Dezember.
The rental contract runs until the end of December.
In real life
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