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verneigen

to bow (the body as a greeting)

verb fer-NYE-gen Rare
Body & Health Movement

Usage Note

sich verneigen means to bow formally from the waist; it is used for theatrical or formal contexts and in martial arts (e.g. sich vor dem Gegner verneigen). It is more ceremonial than simply nicken (to nod).

Examples

"Der Pianist verneigte sich tief vor dem begeisterten Publikum."

Natural Translation

The pianist bowed deeply before the enthusiastic audience.

Literal Translation

The pianist bowed deeply before the enthusiastic audience.

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