unbewaffnet
unarmed
Describes a person who is not carrying any weapons.
EXAMPLE
Der Verdächtige war bei seiner Festnahme unbewaffnet.
The suspect was unarmed when he was arrested.
unbewaffnet
unarmed
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of three parts: the prefix 'un-' negates 'bewaffnet' (armed). 'Bewaffnet' is the past participle of 'bewaffnen' (to arm), which is derived from 'die Waffe' (weapon). So 'unbewaffnet' literally means 'not equipped with a weapon.'
EXAMPLE
Die Demonstranten betonten, dass sie friedlich und unbewaffnet seien.
The demonstrators emphasized that they were peaceful and unarmed.
Use as an adjective
'Unbewaffnet' can be used as an adjective in two ways: it can stand after a verb like 'sein' (to be), or directly before a noun. When it stands before a noun, it must be declined.
EXAMPLE
Der Einbrecher war zum Glück unbewaffnet.
Fortunately, the burglar was unarmed.
Typical context
This adjective is mainly used in contexts related to police, the military, crime, or security. It often describes the condition of civilians, suspects, or police officers in a particular situation.
EXAMPLE
Der Polizist trat dem Mann unbewaffnet entgegen, um die Situation zu deeskalieren.
The police officer approached the man unarmed in order to de-escalate the situation.
Compare with
unbewaffnet vs wehrlos
defenseless
Both words can describe a person in a dangerous situation. „Unbewaffnet“ only says that the person is not carrying any weapons; „wehrlos“ goes further and emphasizes that the person cannot defend themselves. Choose „unbewaffnet“ when the issue is only weapons and „wehrlos“ when fighting back is not possible.
unbewaffnet
Der Wanderer war unbewaffnet, konnte sich aber mit seinen Freunden gegen die Gefahr schützen.
The hiker was unarmed, but he could protect himself from the danger with his friends.
wehrlos
Der verletzte Mann war dem Angreifer wehrlos ausgeliefert und konnte sich nicht verteidigen.
The injured man was at the attacker’s mercy and could not defend himself.
In real life
Loading video examples...