Versagen Translations, meanings and synonyms

"Versagen" is used as verb with the meaning of "fail", "fall short" or "not succeed".

Essential properties of "versagen"

Its most important properties are:

Properties

  • Infinitive: versagen
  • Simple past: versagte
  • Participle: versagt

See full conjugation of versagen

regulartransitiveintransitive
Note: These properties are not absolute. A transitive verb can be used intransitively and vice versa depending on context, and many verbs can be used reflexively even though they are not primarily reflexive.

Meanings of "versagen" + more translations, synonyms and antonyms

It has the meanings and uses detailed below:

1.) "To fail to achieve an expected outcome"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Er hat in der Prüfung versagt.He failed the exam.
  2. Das System versagte unter der hohen Belastung.The system failed under the high load.
  3. Wir dürfen in dieser wichtigen Aufgabe nicht versagen.We must not fail in this important task.

2.) "To stop working or malfunction"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Die Bremsen haben plötzlich versagt.The brakes suddenly failed.
  2. Mein Handy versagt immer in wichtigen Momenten.My phone always malfunctions at important moments.
  3. Wenn die Technik versagt, müssen wir improvisieren.If the technology fails, we have to improvise.

3.) "To deny or refuse a request"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Der Chef hat ihm die Gehaltserhöhung versagt.The boss denied him the salary increase.
  2. Sie versagte sich den Luxus eines teuren Urlaubs.She denied herself the luxury of an expensive vacation.
  3. Wir können ihm diese Bitte nicht versagen.We cannot deny him this request.
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