vor|zeichnen
Translation
to sketch out, to draw in advance, to predetermine, to foreshadow
Examples
Der Architekt zeichnet den Plan vor.
The architect sketches out the plan.
Sein Lebensweg schien vorgezeichnet.
His path in life seemed predetermined.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) vorzeichnen (to sketch sth. out) The artist sketches out the draft.
Similar Words
Synonyms: skizzieren, entwerfen, vorbestimmen
Etymology
From 'vor-' (before, in advance) and 'zeichnen' (to draw). Literally 'to draw before'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'drawing' (zeichnen) a plan 'in advance' (vor-). This can be literal (sketching) or figurative (predetermining).