01
die Sperre
barrier
An obstacle or barrier that physically blocks a path, road, or access point.
example
Die Polizei errichtete eine Sperre, um die Unfallstelle abzusichern.
The police set up a barrier to secure the accident site.
die Sperre
barrier / block
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Die Sperre' (barrier/block) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'sperren' (to block/lock). When you block something, such as a road or an account, the result is a 'Sperre' (block/barrier).
EXAMPLE
Die Bank hat mein Konto gesperrt. Ich muss anrufen, um die Sperre aufzuheben.
The bank blocked my account. I have to call to have the block lifted.
Typical verbs
In connection with physical barriers, the verb 'errichten' (to erect/set up) is often used. To remove them, you say 'aufheben' (to lift) or 'entfernen' (to remove).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Erdrutsch musste eine Straßensperre errichtet werden.
After the landslide, a roadblock had to be set up.
Typical collocations
In digital or financial contexts, 'Sperre' (block) is often combined into words like 'Kontosperre' (account block) or 'Handysperre' (phone lock/block). You can 'veranlassen' (initiate) or 'aufheben' (lift) a block.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Diebstahl habe ich sofort die Sperre meiner Kreditkarte veranlasst.
After the theft, I immediately initiated the blocking of my credit card.
Sentence structure in sports
In sports contexts, the duration or extent of a suspension is often expressed with the preposition 'für' and the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Foul erhielt der Kapitän eine Sperre für das nächste Spiel.
After the foul, the captain received a suspension for the next game.
Mental block
To describe a psychological block, 'Sperre' (block) is often combined with 'im Kopf' (in one's head). A very common compound is 'die Schreibsperre' (writer's block) for authors.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe im Moment eine totale Sperre im Kopf und kann keine kreativen Ideen finden.
Right now I have a total block in my head and can't find any creative ideas.
Compare with
Sperre vs Verbot
ban / prohibition
'das Verbot' and 'die Sperre' can both mean that someone is not allowed to do or use something. 'Verbot' usually refers to a rule or law: something is officially not allowed. 'Sperre' more often describes access being blocked or someone being temporarily barred from participating, for example with an account, a card, or in sports. A 'Sperre' can therefore be the practical consequence of a rule or punishment. 'Verbot' fits better for the rule itself, while 'Sperre' fits the blocking or exclusion.
Sperre
Wegen falscher PIN-Eingaben hat meine Bank die Sperre der Karte bestätigt.
Because of incorrect PIN entries, my bank confirmed that the card had been blocked.
Verbot
Das Verbot von lauter Musik nach 22 Uhr steht im Mietvertrag.
The ban on loud music after 10 p.m. is in the rental agreement.
In real life
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