to undermine
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to undermine
To secretly, slowly, and systematically weaken or destroy something, such as authority, trust, or health. This verb is not separable.
Seine ständigen Lügen untergraben das Vertrauen in der Beziehung.
His constant lies undermine the trust in the relationship.
'Untergraben' (to undermine) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'unter-' is not stressed and remains firmly attached to the verb 'graben' (to dig) in all sentence forms.
Ständiges Misstrauen untergräbt jede Freundschaft.
Constant mistrust undermines every friendship.
The figurative meaning 'to weaken' is almost always used with abstract nouns. If you see words like 'Vertrauen' (trust), 'Autorität' (authority), 'Gesundheit' (health), or 'Moral' (morale) as the object, this meaning is intended.
Die ständige Kritik hat ihr Selbstvertrauen langsam untergraben.
The constant criticism slowly undermined her self-confidence.
Common abstract concepts that can be 'untergraben' (undermined) include: 'das Vertrauen' (trust), 'die Autorität' (authority), 'die Disziplin' (discipline), 'die Moral' (morale), or 'die Gesundheit' (health).
Solche Aktionen untergraben die Autorität der Schulleitung.
Such actions undermine the authority of the school administration.
The figurative meaning of 'untergraben' (to undermine) belongs more to written language or a more formal style. It is often found in news, political discussions, or specialist texts.
Der Artikel analysiert, wie Falschnachrichten das Vertrauen in die Medien untergraben.
The article analyzes how fake news undermines trust in the media.
to strengthen
'stärken' and 'untergraben' are clear opposites when it comes to trust, authority, health, or influence. 'stärken' means to make something stronger, more secure, or more effective. 'untergraben' means to slowly, and often not openly, weaken or damage something. So 'stärken' fits when something gains more strength or support. 'untergraben' fits when something gradually loses strength, for example because of bad decisions or false information.
Ständige Kritik vor dem Team untergräbt das Vertrauen in die Chefin.
Constant criticism in front of the team undermines trust in the boss.
Regelmäßiges Training stärkt den Rücken und verbessert die Haltung.
Regular training strengthens the back and improves posture.