abfeilen

to file down, to smooth with a file

verb AHP-fie-len Rare

Usage Note

abfeilen is separable and means to file something down — nails, calluses, or a rough edge. In nail care, die Nägel abfeilen means filing the nails smooth. The prefix ab- emphasises removing material progressively through filing.

Examples

"Sie feilt die Nagelkante vorsichtig ab, um kein Einwachsen zu riskieren."

Natural Translation

She files the nail edge carefully to avoid the risk of an ingrown nail.

Literal Translation

She files the nail-edge carefully off, to no ingrowth to risk.

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