beschädigen
to damage
To cause harm to an object so that its function, value, or appearance is impaired.
EXAMPLE
Beim Einparken habe ich aus Versehen das andere Auto leicht beschädigt.
While parking, I accidentally slightly damaged the other car.
beschädigen
to damage
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The verb 'beschädigen' (to damage) is derived from the noun 'der Schaden' (damage). The prefix 'be-' turns it into a verb meaning to cause damage.
EXAMPLE
Der Sturm hat am Dach einen großen Schaden verursacht.
The storm caused major damage to the roof.
Usage context
This verb is used when talking about damage to objects or things. It is not used for injuring people or animals.
EXAMPLE
Das Buch ist beim Transport beschädigt worden.
The book was damaged during transport.
Typical collocations
The extent of the damage is often described more precisely with an adverb. Typical combinations are 'leicht beschädigen' (to damage slightly), 'schwer beschädigen' (to damage severely), or 'stark beschädigen' (to damage badly).
EXAMPLE
Mein Handy ist heruntergefallen, aber es wurde zum Glück nur leicht beschädigt.
My phone fell down, but luckily it was only slightly damaged.
Compare with
beschädigen vs Schaden
damage / harm
Schaden is a noun referring to the impairment that has occurred to something. Beschädigen is a verb expressing that someone or something causes this impairment. So you speak of damage to something or say that something damages it.
beschädigen
Der Hagel beschädigte das Dach schwer.
The hail severely damaged the roof.
Schaden
Der Hagel verursachte einen großen Schaden am Dach.
The hail caused significant damage to the roof.
In real life
Loading video examples...