prevention / inability
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prevention
The process or result of something or someone being prevented from doing something or from happening. It describes the averting of an event.
Die schnelle Reaktion der Feuerwehr führte zur Verhinderung eines Großbrandes.
The fire department's quick response led to the prevention of a major fire.
The noun 'die Verhinderung' (prevention/inability) is derived from the verb 'verhindern' (to prevent). The ending '-ung' is a typical way in German to form a feminine noun from a verb that describes an action or process.
Die Verhinderung der Katastrophe war sein oberstes Ziel.
The prevention of the catastrophe was his top priority.
'Verhinderung' (prevention/inability) is a formal word used mainly in written language, in official notices, or in the press. It is rather rare in everyday conversation.
Die Polizei ergriff Maßnahmen zur Verhinderung von Ausschreitungen.
The police took measures to prevent riots.
'Verhinderung' (prevention) is very often used with a genitive object to say exactly what is being prevented. Alternatively, you can use the preposition 'von' with the dative.
Die Verhinderung des Unfalls ist dem schnellen Bremsen zu verdanken.
The prevention of the accident is thanks to the quick braking.
The phrase 'im Verhinderungsfall' (in case of inability to attend) is a fixed formal expression. It is used to announce a substitute or a plan B in case the named person is absent.
Bitte informieren Sie im Verhinderungsfall rechtzeitig meine Assistentin.
Please inform my assistant in good time if you are unable to attend.
disability / obstruction
'Behinderung' and 'Verhinderung' are both related to the verb 'hindern' (to prevent / hinder), but they do not mean the same thing. 'Behinderung' describes an obstacle or disruption that makes something more difficult or blocks it. 'Verhinderung' means that something does not happen at all or is actively averted. That is why learners can easily confuse the words. A 'Behinderung' can disrupt a process, but a 'Verhinderung' stops an event or ensures that it does not occur.
Die schnelle Hilfe der Nachbarn führte zur Verhinderung eines größeren Schadens.
The neighbors' quick help led to the prevention of more serious damage.
In der Schule gab es heute eine Behinderung der Internetverbindung während des Tests.
At school today, there was a disruption to the internet connection during the test.