verzweifeln
Translation
to despair, to lose hope
Examples
Er verzweifelte an der schweren Aufgabe.
He despaired over 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
Notice 'Zweifel' (doubt) within the word. 'Verzweifeln' is what happens when doubt takes over completely. The 'zwei' (two) in 'Zweifel' hints at being torn between two options, which is the root of doubt.