übertreten
to violate
To violate or disregard a rule, law, or boundary. This verb is not separable.
EXAMPLE
Er hat mit seinem Verhalten klar die Grenzen des Anstands übertreten.
With his behavior, he clearly violated the boundaries of decency.
übertreten
to violate / cross
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
In this meaning, 'übertreten' (to violate) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'über-' always stays at the beginning of the verb, even in a main clause.
EXAMPLE
Wer die Geschwindigkeit übertritt, muss mit einer Strafe rechnen.
Anyone who violates the speed limit must expect a penalty.
Word structure
The word consists of 'über' (over) and 'treten' (to step). The meaning derives from the literal idea of stepping over a line or boundary.
EXAMPLE
Bitte übertreten Sie die weiße Linie nicht.
Please do not cross the white line.
Use with accusative
The verb 'übertreten' (to violate) always requires a direct object in the accusative that indicates what is being violated.
EXAMPLE
Der Autofahrer hat das rote Ampelsignal übertreten.
The driver violated the red traffic light signal.
Typical collocations
This verb is typically combined with abstract nouns that represent a rule or norm: 'ein Gesetz übertreten' (to violate a law), 'eine Regel übertreten' (to violate a rule), 'seine Befugnisse übertreten' (to exceed one's authority).
EXAMPLE
Mit dieser Aussage haben Sie Ihre Kompetenzen klar übertreten.
With this statement, you have clearly exceeded your authority.
Compare with
übertreten vs verletzen
to injure / hurt / violate
Both verbs can express a violation. Verletzen is more general and also fits duties or rights; übertreten is more closely associated with a specific rule, law, or boundary. Verletzen is therefore more appropriate for a duty, while übertreten often fits a clear regulation better.
übertreten
Mit der unerlaubten Weitergabe übertritt die Mitarbeiterin eine klare Dienstvorschrift.
By passing on the information without permission, the employee violated a clear company regulation.
verletzen
Mit der unerlaubten Weitergabe verletzt die Mitarbeiterin ihre Pflicht zur Verschwiegenheit.
By passing on the information without permission, the employee violated her duty of confidentiality.
In real life
Loading video examples...