to unlock / de-energize
Loading your saved state.
to unlock
To make a previously blocked or unavailable access point, function, or piece of content usable. This often happens after a check, payment, or reaching a certain goal.
Nachdem Sie Ihr Konto verifiziert haben, werden alle Funktionen freigeschaltet.
After you have verified your account, all functions will be unlocked.
The word is made up of 'frei' (free) and 'schalten' (to switch). The literal meaning is to 'switch' something into a 'free' or accessible state.
Du musst das nächste Level im Spiel erst freischalten.
You have to unlock the next level in the game first.
'Freischalten' (to unlock / de-energize) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'frei' goes at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Techniker schaltet den Anschluss morgen frei.
The technician will activate the connection tomorrow.
The context reveals the meaning: if it is about digital content such as accounts, functions, or games, it means 'to grant access'. If it is about electrical systems or fuses, it means 'to disconnect from the power supply'.
Nach der Bezahlung schalten wir Ihnen den Premium-Zugang frei.
After payment, we will unlock premium access for you.
In a digital context, the verb is often used with accusative objects such as 'ein Konto' (an account), 'neue Inhalte' (new content), 'ein Level' (a level), or 'eine Funktion' (a function).
Wenn du 1000 Punkte erreichst, schaltest du einen Bonus frei.
When you reach 1,000 points, you unlock a bonus.
In the meaning 'vom Strom trennen' (to disconnect from the power supply), 'freischalten' (to de-energize) is a technical term from electrical engineering. In everyday language, people would be more likely to say that they turn off the power or remove the fuse.
Die Sicherheitsvorschriften verlangen, den Stromkreis vor Beginn der Arbeiten freizuschalten.
The safety regulations require the circuit to be de-energized before work begins.
to block / to ban
'sperren' and 'freischalten' both describe whether you can use something or not. Here they are opposites: if an account, card, or access is 'gesperrt' (blocked), you cannot use it. If something is 'freigeschaltet', it is made usable. The words can be confused because both often occur in contexts involving technology, accounts, or online access. In practice: 'sperren' closes or blocks something, while 'freischalten' opens it again or allows it to be used.
Nach der Bezahlung schaltet die App den neuen Kurs frei.
After payment, the app unlocks the new course.
Nach drei falschen Passwörtern sperrt die Bank mein Online-Konto.
After three wrong passwords, the bank blocks my online account.