verkorten

Verkorten is a Dutch verb meaning to shorten, reduce in length or duration, or abbreviate. It is used for physical lengths (making something shorter), for time or duration (reducing the time available), and for text or speech (condensing, editing). In a figurative sense, the term can refer to shortening procedures, processes, or policies.

Etymology and form: Verkorten is formed from the stem kor t en (to shorten) with the productive prefix ver-. The prefix ver- in Dutch often signals alteration or completion of an action. The verb is regular in conjugation for standard Dutch usage, and its participle form is verkort. It commonly appears with a direct object, such as verkorten van teksten, verkorten van perioden, or verkorten van de duur.

Usage and examples: In editing and writing, verkorten is used to reduce word counts or remove unnecessary material, as in De tekst moet nog verder verkort worden. In logistics or construction, verkorten can describe shortening physical dimensions, for example De kabel is verkort. In scheduling or policy contexts, it refers to shortening timeframes, zoals De termijn is verkort door de autoriteit.

Synonyms and related terms include verkleinen (to reduce in size), inkorten (to shorten in a more general or practical sense), and verkorting (the act or result of shortening). Antonyms include verlengen (to lengthen) and uitrekken (to stretch out).

See also: verkorting, a related noun referring to the act or result of shortening, and general discussions of length, duration, and editing in Dutch usage.