verzweifeln
Translation
to despair, to lose hope
Examples
Er verzweifelte an der schweren Aufgabe.
He despaired at the difficult task.
Verzweifeln Sie nicht, es gibt Hoffnung.
Don't despair, there is hope.
Grammar Patterns
((an+3)) to despair of/at sth. She despaired at the injustice of the world.
Similar Words
Synonyms: die Hoffnung verlieren (to lose hope), resignieren (to resign)
Etymology
From 'ver-' (a prefix indicating a process) + 'Zweifel' (doubt). The word means to be overcome by doubt, hence to despair.
Memory Tips
See the word 'Zweifel' (doubt) inside. 'Verzweifeln' is the state of being completely consumed by doubt, leading to despair. The 'zwei' (two) in 'Zweifel' can remind you of being of two minds, i.e., doubtful.