noun

das Bedenken, –

concerns · reservations · concern

Ein Gefühl des Zweifelns oder Unsicherseins über etwas, oft bevor man eine Entscheidung trifft.

The German word „Bedenken“ is a noun and a verb:

  • As a noun, Bedenken means doubts, concerns, or reservations.
  • As a verb (less common usage), it means to consider or to have reservations.

The word is derived from „denken“ (to think) plus the prefix „Be-“ (which can indicate a process or focus).

Similar words:

  • Zweifel – doubts
  • Sorge – worry, concern
  • Befürchtung – fear, apprehension

Differences:

  • Bedenken (noun) generally refers to thoughtful concerns or doubts before making a decision.
  • Zweifel implies stronger or more skeptical doubts.
  • Sorge is more about worry or anxiety.
  • Befürchtung implies fear of a negative outcome.

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Examples

Er hat einige Bedenken geäußert.noun

He expressed some concerns.

Bedenken sollten immer ernst genommen werden.noun

Concerns should always be taken seriously.

Meine Bedenken bleiben bestehen.noun

My reservations remain.

Trotz seiner Erfahrung hat er Bedenken.noun

Despite his experience, he has concerns.

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