opfern
Translation
to sacrifice, to offer, to donate
Examples
Sie opfert ihre Freizeit für die Familie.
She sacrifices her free time for her family.
Er musste seinen König im Schach opfern.
He had to sacrifice his king in chess.
Die Ureinwohner opferten den Göttern Tiere.
The indigenous people sacrificed animals to the gods.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) ((for sb./sth.)) to sacrifice sth. for sb./sth. She sacrifices her free time for the family.
((sth.)) ((to sb.)) to sacrifice sth. to sb. The indigenous people sacrificed animals to the gods.
Similar Words
Synonyms: to devote, to dedicate; Antonyms: to keep, to preserve
Etymology
From Latin 'operari' (to work, to offer), related to 'das Opfer' (the sacrifice, victim).
Memory Tips
Think of an 'opera' singer 'offering' up their voice for a performance. The sound is similar.