01
verdecken
to cover
To place, put, or hold something over or in front of another thing so that it is no longer visible.
example
Eine große Wolke verdeckte die Sonne.
A large cloud covered the sun.
verdecken
to cover / to conceal
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Verdecken' (to cover / to conceal) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'ver-' always remains attached to the stem 'decken' (to cover), regardless of tense or sentence position.
EXAMPLE
Er verdeckte sein Gesicht mit den Händen.
He covered his face with his hands.
Context clue
Whether 'verdecken' (to cover / to conceal) is meant literally or figuratively can be recognized from the object. With concrete objects like 'Gesicht' (face) or 'Sonne' (sun), it is literal. With abstract things like 'Gefühle' (feelings) or 'Absichten' (intentions), it is figurative.
EXAMPLE
Der Vorhang verdeckt das Fenster nur halb.
The curtain only half covers the window.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'verdecken' (to conceal) is often used with abstract nouns. Typical combinations are 'seine Absichten verdecken' (to conceal one's intentions), 'die Wahrheit verdecken' (to conceal the truth), or 'seine Spuren verdecken' (to cover one's tracks).
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker versuchte, den wahren Grund für seine Entscheidung zu verdecken.
The politician tried to conceal the real reason for his decision.
Adjective/adverb 'verdeckt'
The past participle 'verdeckt' is often used as an adjective or adverb. It means 'secret' or 'not openly visible', not only with cards but also in investigations.
EXAMPLE
Der Detektiv führte eine verdeckte Ermittlung durch.
The detective carried out an undercover investigation.
Compare with
verdecken vs verstecken
to hide
'verstecken' and 'verdecken' both have to do with something not being visible or known. 'verstecken' means that you put something, or yourself, in a place where others cannot easily find it. So it is often about searching and finding. 'verdecken' means that something is in front of or over something else, so that you cannot see it. It can also mean that you do not show feelings, intentions, or facts. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with 'not visible'. Memory tip: You hide something in a place with 'verstecken', but you cover something with or by means of something else with 'verdecken'.
verdecken
Der große Rucksack verdeckt im Zug den freien Sitz neben der Tür.
On the train, the large backpack covers the empty seat next to the door.
verstecken
Greta versteckt den Schlüssel unter dem Blumentopf.
Greta hides the key under the flowerpot.
In real life
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