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ablaufen
/ˈapˌlaʊ̯fn̩/
to run out, to expire, to elapse
Die Milch ist abgelaufen.
The milk has expired.
general
To run out or expire (of time or a product)
Der Vertrag läuft in einem Monat ab.
The contract will expire in a month.
Often used with time-related contexts or perishable products.
general
To elapse or pass (of time)
Die Zeit läuft schnell ab.
Time is passing quickly.
Used in a temporal sense to describe the passage of time.
general
To drain or flow away (of liquids)
Das Wasser läuft langsam ab.
The water is draining slowly.
Used in a literal sense for liquids flowing away.
Collocations
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Separable Prefix
Remember that 'ablaufen' is a separable verb, so in past tense or with auxiliary verbs, the prefix 'ab-' moves to the end of the clause.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'ablaufen' depends heavily on context—whether it's about time, products, or liquids.
Word Origin
From Middle High German 'abloufen', from 'ab-' (off) + 'laufen' (to run).
Usage Notes
The verb is separable, meaning the prefix 'ab-' can be separated in certain grammatical constructions.
Word Breakdown
ab-
off, away
prefixlaufen
to run
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