Usage Note
Vergebung means the act of forgiving a wrong. In Christian theology it is a central virtue and sacramental act (Vergebung der Sünden). In secular usage, um Vergebung bitten means to ask for forgiveness; it is used in both personal and formal contexts.
Examples
"Er bat seine Schwester um Vergebung für die verletzenden Worte."
Natural Translation
He asked his sister for forgiveness for the hurtful words.
Literal Translation
He asked his sister for forgiveness for the hurtful words.
Related Words
Explore German by topic
GermanNow
6 min read