gemahnen
Translation
to remind, to admonish, to exhort
Examples
Er gemahnte ihn an sein Versprechen.
He reminded him of his promise.
Die Ruinen gemahnen an den Krieg.
The ruins are a reminder of the war.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n)) ((an+4)) to remind ((sb.)) of ((sth.)) He gemahnte his friend an the debt.
((an+4)) to be a reminder of ((sth.)) The monument gemahnt an the victory.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erinnern (to remind), ermahnen (to admonish), warnen (to warn)
Etymology
An intensified form of 'mahnen' (to urge, to warn). The 'ge-' prefix adds emphasis. Cognate with English 'admonish'.
Memory Tips
This is a high-register, formal word. Use 'erinnern' in everyday speech. 'Gemahnen' is for monuments and official warnings.