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.
in case of inability
A formal expression meaning that someone cannot be present or cannot perform a task. It is often used to arrange a substitute.
Im Verhinderungsfall wird mein Kollege die Präsentation für mich halten.
In case of inability to attend, my colleague will give the presentation for me.
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
Both words can describe something that stops or impedes a process. A „Behinderung“ draws attention to a process that has become more difficult or slower, while a „Verhinderung“ emphasizes that an action or event does not take place at all. Use „Behinderung“ for a delay and „Verhinderung“ when an outcome is prevented.
Die Straßensperre diente der Verhinderung des Durchgangs.
The roadblock was intended to prevent passage.
Die Baustelle führte zu einer Behinderung des Verkehrs, der nur langsam weiterkam.
The construction work caused an obstruction to traffic, which was able to move forward only slowly.
