to denounce
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to denounce
To publicly and sharply criticize or condemn something or someone. The goal is to draw attention to misconduct or a problem and expose those responsible.
Die Menschenrechtsorganisation prangerte die katastrophalen Zustände in den Gefängnissen an.
The human rights organization denounced the catastrophic conditions in the prisons.
'Anprangern' (to denounce) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an-' comes at the end of the main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Journalist prangert die Korruption im Rathaus an.
The journalist denounces the corruption in city hall.
The verb is derived from 'Pranger' (pillory), a medieval instrument of punishment on which convicted people were publicly displayed. This idea of public exposure is still contained in the modern meaning.
Die Aktivisten prangerten die umweltschädlichen Praktiken des Unternehmens an.
The activists denounced the company's environmentally harmful practices.
One typically denounces negative, abstract things. Common objects are 'Missstände' (abuses/problems), 'Zustände' (conditions), 'Bedingungen' (conditions), 'Ungerechtigkeit' (injustice), or 'Verhalten' (behavior).
In ihrem Buch prangert sie die sozialen Ungerechtigkeiten an.
In her book, she denounces social injustices.
'Anprangern' (to denounce) is a strong and rather formal word. It is frequently used in the media, in politics, and by organizations to draw attention to serious problems.
Die Opposition prangerte die neue Politik der Regierung scharf an.
The opposition sharply denounced the government's new policy.
to sentence / condemn
'verurteilen' and 'anprangern' can both mean that you strongly criticize and reject something. 'verurteilen' can also simply mean that you consider a behavior morally wrong. 'anprangern' is more public and sharper: you speak out about a problem, often in front of others, and want to draw attention to a serious issue. 'anprangern' is especially suitable in politics, the media, or public discussions.
Die Zeitung prangert die schlechten Arbeitsbedingungen in der Firma an.
The newspaper denounces the poor working conditions at the company.
Die Lehrerin verurteilt das Lügen in der Klasse.
The teacher condemns lying in class.