töten — meaning in English: kill

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töten

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use 'töten' in contexts that involve discussions about animals or nature, such as hunting or wildlife conservation. It may also come up in serious conversations about crime or violence, especially in news reports and crime dramas.

Synonyms & nuances

'Töten' is often used in more serious contexts compared to synonyms like 'umschlagen' (to knock out) which can imply a less permanent state. You would choose 'töten' when discussing lethal actions or serious consequences, conveying a heavier emotional weight than its alternatives.

Culture

'Töten' comes from the Old High German 'toten,' meaning 'to kill' or 'to slay.' This word illustrates humanity's long-standing relationship with life and death, as it appears in many German folktales and myths where the theme of death often serves as a moral lesson. Interestingly, 'töten' also has connections to various expressions, emphasizing the gravity of taking a life in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

FAQ

Q.What does 'töten' mean in English?

'Töten' translates to 'kill' in English, indicating the act of causing death to a living being, be it an animal or a person.

Q.How do you conjugate 'töten' in the present tense?

'Töten' is conjugated as follows: ich töte (I kill), du tötest (you kill), er/sie/es tötet (he/she/it kills), wir/t ihr/sie töten (we/you/they kill).

Q.Can 'töten' be used in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, 'töten' can be used metaphorically in German, such as in expressions like 'die Zeit töten' (to kill time), where it refers to making time pass without implying harm.

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