Vyvrtnout

Vyvrtnout is a Czech verb meaning to twist or to sprain a joint, typically as a result of a sudden, forceful movement. In everyday language it is used for both twisting an object or turning something abruptly, and for injuring a joint, most often the ankle: vyvrtnout si kotník. The action is usually described as a completed event, so the verb is commonly treated as perfective, with past forms expressing that the sprain has occurred.

Etymology and related forms: vyvrtnout comes from the root vrt- or vrtět, meaning to twist or turn, with the prefix vy- indicating completion or a sudden, incident-related action. Related verbs include vrtnout (to twist or turn, sometimes in a mechanical sense) and vrtět (to wiggle or shake). The noun form vyvrtnutí denotes a sprain or twist of a joint.

Usage and context: The expression vyvrtnout si kotník is among the most frequent collocations, but sprains of other joints such as zápěstí (wrist) or koleno (knee) are also common. The word appears in medical, sports, and colloquial contexts, often in sentences like “Při běhání jsem si vyvrtnul kotník.” The corresponding noun vyvrtnutí is used to refer to the injury itself, e.g., “Vyvrtnutí kotníku vyžaduje lékařské ošetření.” The term should not be confused with vyvrátit, which has different meanings such as overturn or disprove.