01
verblassen
to fade
To lose the intensity of a color; to become paler or lighter.
example
Die alte Fotografie ist über die Jahre stark verblasst.
The old photograph has faded badly over the years.
verblassen
to fade
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The verb is made up of the prefix 'ver-' and the adjective 'blass' (pale). The prefix 'ver-' here describes a change or a disappearance. 'Verblassen' (to fade) therefore literally means 'to become pale.' It is an inseparable verb.
EXAMPLE
Die Schrift auf dem alten Dokument ist kaum noch lesbar, sie ist stark verblasst.
The writing on the old document is barely legible anymore; it has faded badly.
Auxiliary verb 'sein'
Since 'verblassen' (to fade) describes a change of state, the perfect tense is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be). So it is 'ist verblasst' (has faded) and not 'hat verblasst'.
EXAMPLE
Die leuchtenden Farben des T-Shirts sind nach dem Waschen verblasst.
The bright colors of the T-shirt have faded after washing.
Context clue
The subject of the sentence reveals the meaning. If it is something concrete with color (photo, fabric, ink), the literal meaning is meant. With abstract subjects (memory, fame, feeling), the figurative meaning is meant.
EXAMPLE
Die rote Farbe an der Hauswand verblasst langsam in der Sonne.
The red paint on the house wall is slowly fading in the sun.
Compare with
verblassen vs verschwinden
to disappear
'verschwinden' and 'verblassen' can both describe something becoming less strongly perceptible. 'verschwinden' means that something is completely gone or is no longer visible, findable, or present. 'verblassen' means that something becomes weaker, lighter, or less clear, but not necessarily completely gone. This fits with colors, memories, feelings, or fame. The words can be confused when talking about memories or feelings. In that case, this question helps: Is it only getting weaker? Then use 'verblassen'. Is it completely gone? Then use 'verschwinden'.
verblassen
Die Fotos am Fenster sind mit der Zeit stark verblasst.
The photos by the window have faded badly over time.
verschwinden
Nach ein paar Tagen verschwand der rote Fleck auf meiner Hand.
After a few days, the red spot on my hand disappeared.
In real life
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