Durchbrechen

Durchbrechen is a German verb meaning to break through or to penetrate a barrier, either literally, as in breaking through a wall or a blockade, or figuratively, such as overcoming an obstacle or gaining a breakthrough in progress. It can describe physical intrusion as well as abstract advances, including military, scientific, or personal contexts. The verb often appears with objects like eine Wand, eine Front, eine Blockade, or a Grenze, but it can also refer to breaking through routines, defenses, or skepticism.

Etymology and usage details: The word is formed from the prefix durch- (through) combined with brechen (to break). The compound expresses the idea of moving from one side to the other by breaking a barrier. It is used across domains from everyday speech to journalism and formal writing. The related noun Durchbruch denotes a breakthrough or decisive development.

Grammar and conjugation: Durchbrechen is a separable-prefix verb. In present tense main clauses, the prefix usually separates, as in er bricht durch die Wand. The simple past is typically er brach durch die Wand, reflecting the irregular verb brechen. The perfect tense uses hat durchbrochen. In passive or subordinate clauses, the same patterns apply with appropriate auxiliary verbs.

Noun form and common phrases: The corresponding noun is Der Durchbruch, with plural Die Durchbrüche, referring to a breakthrough in science, technology, medicine, or a military front, as well as figurative breakthroughs. Common phrases include einen Durchbruch erreichen, einen Durchbruch erzielen, or eine Blockade durchbrechen.

See also: Durchbruch (noun), Brechen (verb), Prefix-verb behavior in German, Figurative language of breakthroughs.

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