Behindern

Behindern is a German verb meaning to hinder, impede, or obstruct. It can describe physical obstruction as well as impediments in processes, plans, or rights. The term is used in everyday language as well as in administrative, legal, and academic contexts.

Grammatically, behindern is a transitive verb and typically takes a direct object: Der Verkehr wird durch die Baustelle behindert. It can also appear in phrases with a subordinate clause to express preventing someone from doing something, often using the construction jemanden daran hindern: Die Vorschriften hindern ihn daran, den Vertrag zu kündigen.

Etymology and related forms: The noun Behinderung (hindrance or disability) is closely related to the verb behindern, formed with the prefix Be- and the suffix -ung, a common pattern in German for creating nouns from verbs. The base hindern also exists as a related form, used in similar senses without the be- prefix.

Usage notes: Behindern is commonly employed to describe delays, restrictions, or obstacles that affect individuals, groups, or operations. It is generally neutral in tone, though it can carry a critical nuance when describing policy or bureaucratic obstacles. In contrast, verbs like fördern (to promote) or unterstützen (to support) express opposite outcomes.

Synonyms and contrasts: hinder, hemmen, blockieren, verzögern; antonyms include fördern, unterstützen, erleichtern.