prägen
Translation
to shape, to influence, to mint, to coin
Examples
Diese Erfahrung hat ihn geprägt.
This experience shaped him.
Die Regierung wird neue Münzen prägen.
The government will mint new coins.
Er prägte einen neuen Begriff.
He coined a new term.
Grammar Patterns
((sb./sth.)) prägen to shape/characterize (sb./sth.) Childhood shapes a person.
((sth.)) prägen to mint (sth.) They are minting a commemorative coin.
Similar Words
Synonyms: formen (to form), beeinflussen (to influence), gestalten (to shape)
Etymology
Related to pressing or printing. Think of a press 'imprinting' a shape onto something.
Memory Tips
Imagine a printing press ('prägen') leaving a permanent mark or impression, just as experiences 'shape' ('prägen') a personality.