01
verstopfen
to clog
To block a passage, such as a pipe, drain, or opening, so that liquids or other things can no longer flow through it.
example
Die Haare haben den Abfluss in der Dusche verstopft.
The hair clogged the drain in the shower.
verstopfen
to clog / to block
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The verb is derived from 'stopfen' (to stuff, to cram). The inseparable prefix 'ver-' intensifies the meaning and indicates that the action leads to a complete blockage.
EXAMPLE
Alte Blätter verstopfen oft die Regenrinne.
Old leaves often clog the gutter.
Active and stative passive
You can use the verb actively to name the cause of the blockage (X verstopft Y). Very often, however, the stative passive (Y ist verstopft) is also used to describe the blocked state.
EXAMPLE
Das Fett verstopft den Abfluss.
The grease clogs the drain.
Context clue
The object of the verb makes the meaning clear. With 'Rohr' (pipe) or 'Abfluss' (drain), it refers to a physical blockage. With 'Straße' (road) or 'Autobahn' (highway), it means a traffic jam. In a medical context, it refers to the intestines.
EXAMPLE
Ein umgefallener Baum verstopft die Landstraße.
A fallen tree is blocking the country road.
Typical causes
When referring to drains or pipes, the typical things that clog something are 'Haare' (hair), 'Fett' (grease), or 'Essensreste' (food scraps).
EXAMPLE
Man sollte kein heißes Fett in den Abfluss gießen, weil es ihn verstopfen kann.
You shouldn't pour hot grease down the drain because it can clog it.
Compare with
verstopfen vs sperren
to block / to ban
'sperren' and 'verstopfen' can both have to do with a blocked path or passage. 'sperren' usually means that a path or access point is deliberately closed, often by a person, an authority, or a barrier. 'verstopfen' means that a passage is no longer clear because of too many things, dirt, or traffic. This often happens more as the result of a situation. The words can be confused because in both cases you cannot get through easily. For an official road closure, you say 'sperren'; for a drain, pipe, or traffic jam, 'verstopfen' fits better.
verstopfen
Blätter verstopfen den Abfluss vor dem Haus.
Leaves clog the drain in front of the house.
sperren
Für den Stadtlauf sperrt die Stadt mehrere Straßen im Zentrum.
For the city run, the city is closing several streets in the center.
In real life
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