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To cease to live; to pass away.
Viele Menschen sterben an Herzproblemen.
Many people die from heart problems.
Sie starb friedlich im Schlaf.
She died peacefully in her sleep.
The verb 'sterben' is often used with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be) in perfect tenses.
To be in danger of dying; to be on the verge of death.
Der Patient stirbt, wenn wir nicht schnell handeln.
The patient will die if we don't act quickly.
In medical contexts, 'sterben' can imply imminent death.
In perfect tenses, 'sterben' uses 'sein' as the auxiliary verb, e.g., 'Er ist gestorben.' (He has died).
'Sterben' is neutral to formal. For informal contexts, consider 'abkratzen' or 'ins Gras beißen', but be aware of their vulgar connotations.
From Middle High German 'sterben', from Old High German 'sterban', from Proto-Germanic 'sturbijaną', ultimately from Proto-Indo-European 'sterbh-'.
'Sterben' is a strong verb and is often used in formal or serious contexts. In colloquial speech, synonyms like 'abkratzen' or 'ins Gras beißen' may be used, but they are considered vulgar.