verschweigen

Verschweigen is a German verb that means to deliberately withhold or conceal information, to refrain from disclosing what one knows. It implies an intentional choice to keep something secret rather than an accidental omission.

Etymology: The word is formed from schweigen, to be silent, with the prefix ver-, which in German often signals alteration of meaning, concealment, or completion. The combination conveys not merely silence but active withholding.

Usage and nuance: Verschweigen carries a negative connotation in many contexts, highlighting moral or ethical considerations around truth-telling. It differs from mere Schweigen (silence) in that it emphasizes the act of withholding specific information. The term can appear in everyday speech, journalism, literature, and discussions of responsibility or integrity.

Contexts and implications: In professional and legal contexts, withholding information may be linked to duties of confidentiality (Schweigepflicht) or fiduciary responsibilities, while in other settings it can amount to deception or breach of trust. The consequences of verschweigen depend on jurisdiction, context, and the information involved, ranging from personal distrust to legal liability.

Examples: Er verschweigt wichtige Details. (He withholds important details.) Der Bericht verschweigt Aspekte der Situation. (The report conceals aspects of the situation.) In ethical discussions, verschweigen is often weighed against the need for transparency and potential harm caused by disclosure or nondisclosure.