untergraben
Translation
to undermine, to subvert, to erode
Examples
Er versucht, meine Autorität zu untergraben.
He is trying to undermine my authority.
Das Misstrauen untergräbt ihre Beziehung.
The mistrust is undermining their relationship.
Grammar Patterns
((et4)) to undermine sth. They are undermining the trust.
Similar Words
Synonyms: schwächen (to weaken), zersetzen (to subvert), aushöhlen (to hollow out); Antonyms: stärken (to strengthen), stützen (to support)
Etymology
From 'unter' (under) + 'graben' (to dig). The literal meaning is 'to dig under', like digging under a foundation to make it collapse.
Memory Tips
Picture someone literally 'digging under' (untergraben) a wall to make it fall. This is a metaphor for undermining authority or trust.