andauernde

Andauernde is a German adjective meaning lasting, persistent, or ongoing. It describes processes, conditions, or phenomena that continue over a long period or recur. The corresponding adverb is andauernd, meaning continuously. In everyday language, andauernde can carry a neutral to slightly negative connotation depending on context.

Etymology: andauernde derives from the verb andauern “to endure, to last,” related to Dauer “duration.” The form is used attributively before a noun (and agrees with gender, number, and case). A related noun, Andauerung, exists but is relatively rare.

Inflection: In attributive position before a noun, the ending depends on gender, number, and case. Feminine singular: eine andauernde Belastung. Neuter singular: das andauernde Geräusch. Masculine singular: ein andauernder Prozess. Plural: die andauernden Situationen (with definite article) or andauernde Probleme (without article). The adverb is andauernd: Er redet andauernd.

Usage: The term commonly appears in journalism, science, and policy discussions to mark chronic or persistent conditions, such as andauernde Belastungen durch Umweltgifte, or andauernde Konflikte. In philosophical or literary contexts it can emphasize ongoing permanence rather than temporary fluctuation.

See also: dauerhaft, beständig, konstant, andauern (verb).