killing
die Tötung, die Tötungen
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killing
The act of ending the life of a person or animal. In a legal context, different forms are distinguished, such as intentional, negligent, or lawful killing.
Die Tötung des Diktators wurde von vielen als Befreiung gefeiert.
The killing of the dictator was celebrated by many as liberation.
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Tötungen |
| genitive | der Tötung |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Tötung | die Tötungen |
| accusative | die Tötung | die Tötungen |
| dative | der Tötung | den Tötungen |
| genitive | der Tötung | der Tötungen |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
The noun 'die Tötung' (the killing) is derived directly from the verb 'töten' (to kill). The ending '-ung' turns the action of killing into a feminine noun that describes the process itself.
Die Polizei untersucht die Tötung des Mannes.
The police are investigating the killing of the man.
The word 'Tötung' (killing) is mainly used in formal contexts such as news reports, police reports, or legal language. It sounds very official and detached.
Der Angeklagte wurde wegen fahrlässiger Tötung verurteilt.
The defendant was convicted of negligent homicide.
In a legal context, 'Tötung' (killing) is often combined with adjectives to specify the type of crime. Common collocations are 'vorsätzliche Tötung' (intentional killing), 'fahrlässige Tötung' (negligent homicide), and 'versuchte Tötung' (attempted killing).
Die Staatsanwaltschaft ermittelt wegen versuchter Tötung.
The public prosecutor's office is investigating on suspicion of attempted killing.
to kill
“Töten” is a verb and describes the action itself, often in general terms. “Die Tötung” refers to the act as a single event and often sounds more formal or legal. Use “töten” for a specific action; “die Tötung” is appropriate when presenting a case formally.
Die Behörde untersucht die Tötung eines geschützten Tieres.
The authorities are investigating the killing of a protected animal.
Es ist verboten, geschützte Tiere zu töten.
It is forbidden to kill protected animals.
