to use contraception / to prevent
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to use contraception
To take measures to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. This is done through the use of contraceptives.
Der Arzt informierte das junge Paar darüber, wie sie sicher verhüten können.
The doctor informed the young couple about how they can use contraception safely.
'Verhüten' (to prevent/use contraception) is an inseparable verb derived from the word 'hüten' (to guard, to watch over). The prefix 'ver-' strengthens the idea of protecting oneself from something unwanted.
Man kann viele Krankheiten durch eine gesunde Lebensweise verhüten.
Many illnesses can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle.
When 'verhüten' (to use contraception) is used without an object, it almost always refers to preventing pregnancy. The more general meaning 'to prevent something' always requires an accusative object.
Es ist wichtig, dass junge Menschen wissen, wie man sicher verhütet.
It is important that young people know how to use contraception safely.
To name the method of contraception, the preposition 'mit' (with) and the dative are used.
Viele Paare verhüten mit dem Kondom.
Many couples use condoms for contraception.
The meaning 'to prevent something unwanted' is formal and is used mainly in written language, for example in news reports or official reports.
Durch die neuen Deiche soll eine Überflutung verhütet werden.
The new dikes are intended to prevent flooding.
to prevent
'verhindern' and 'verhüten' can both mean that something unwanted does not happen. 'verhindern' is the general word for many situations. Today, 'verhüten' is used especially in connection with an unwanted pregnancy. In the meaning 'to prevent an accident or harm', 'verhüten' sounds rather formal or a bit old-fashioned. That is why 'verhindern' is often more natural in everyday language, unless you are directly talking about contraception in the sexual or medical sense.
Viele Paare sprechen mit ihrer Ärztin darüber, wie sie sicher verhüten können.
Many couples talk with their doctor about how they can use contraception safely.
Die Lehrerin hat verhindert, dass sich die Schüler beim Experiment verletzen.
The teacher prevented the students from injuring themselves during the experiment.