01
stressen
to stress out
To put someone under pressure, cause them stress, or make them nervous.
example
Die ständigen Termine und die viele Arbeit stressen mich sehr.
The constant appointments and all the work really stress me out.
stressen
to stress out / annoy
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Origin of the word
The verb 'stressen' (to stress out) is a relatively modern word in German and was derived directly from the English word 'stress'. It is very common in everyday language.
EXAMPLE
Lass uns das Thema wechseln, das stresst mich nur.
Let's change the subject; it just stresses me out.
Transitive vs. reflexive
It is important to distinguish: 'jemanden stressen' (to stress someone out) means that an external thing or person causes stress. 'Sich stressen' (to stress oneself out) means that you put yourself under pressure.
EXAMPLE
Der Lärm von der Baustelle stresst die Anwohner.
The noise from the construction site stresses out the residents.
Register: colloquial
In the meaning of 'nerven' (to annoy) or 'stören' (to bother), 'stressen' (to annoy) is used mainly in informal colloquial speech. In formal contexts, you would use other verbs.
EXAMPLE
Stress hier nicht so rum, ich brauche meine Ruhe!
Stop being so annoying here; I need some peace and quiet!
Compare with
stressen vs stören
to disturb / bother
'stören' and 'stressen' can both mean that something is unpleasant for someone. You use 'stören' when someone is interrupted, loses their peace and quiet, or finds something annoying. 'stressen' means more strongly that someone comes under pressure, gets nervous, or feels burdened. Colloquially, 'stressen' can also simply mean 'to annoy' or 'to bother'. That is why learners may confuse the words. If it is about an interruption, 'stören' is more precise. If it is about pressure, hectic activity, or inner tension, 'stressen' fits better.
stressen
Die vielen E-Mails haben mich heute Morgen schon sehr gestresst.
The many emails already really stressed me out this morning.
stören
Bitte stör mich nicht, ich muss diesen Bericht fertig schreiben.
Please don't disturb me; I need to finish writing this report.
In real life
Loading video examples...