TOPIC · Verbs (Verben)

Distinguishing the meanings of the verb "lassen" with prefixes

B1B2

After this lesson, the learner will be able to explain and use the different meanings of the verb "lassen" with various prefixes.

In this lesson, we will explore the German verb "lassen" and its various prefixes. Each prefix modifies the verb's meaning, introducing new nuances into its use. Let’s discover the meanings and applications together!

The base verb "lassen" primarily means "to allow" or "to leave behind." Here are some examples:

  • Wo hast du deinen Schlüssel gelassen? (Where did you leave your key?)
  • Sie lässt ihre Freundin oft alleine. (She often allows her friend to be alone.)
  • Er kann seine alten Gewohnheiten nicht lassen. (He cannot give up his old habits.)

When combined with different prefixes, "lassen" creates various meanings. Let’s look at the most important ones:

PrefixMeaningExample
ab-lassento let go, to releaseLass die Sorgen ab! (Let go of your worries!)
an-lassento keep runningDu darfst den Fernseher anlassen. (You may leave the TV on.)
be-lassento leave unchangedLass es dabei belassen. (Let it remain as it is.)
ein-lassento acceptIch lasse den Vorschlag ein. (I accept the proposal.)
ent-lassento release, to dischargeSie wird nächste Woche entlassen. (She will be released next week.)
er-lassento issue, to proclaimEin Gesetz wurde erlassen. (A law has been issued.)
nach-lassento diminish, to relentDer Druck lässt langsam nach. (The pressure is slowly lessening.)
offen-lassento leave openLass die Frage offen. (Leave the question unanswered.)
ran-lassento allow to approachLass den Strom ran! (Let the current flow!)
ver-lassento leave, to departSie hat ihn verlassen. (She left him.)
zer-lassento melt downLass die Butter zerlassen. (Let the butter melt.)

These combinations are crucial for understanding the nuances of the verb "lassen." Practice them regularly in different sentences and contexts!