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noun

die Verfassung, -en

constitution

Ein grundlegendes Regelwerk eines Staates, das festlegt, wie die Regierung arbeitet und welche Rechte die Menschen haben.

The German word "Verfassung" is a noun that primarily means "constitution"—the fundamental legal and political framework of a state. It is made up of the root verb "fassen" meaning "to grasp" or "to seize", with the prefix "ver-" indicating completion or result. Thus, "Verfassung" can be understood as the "state of being constituted" or "structure".

Additionally, "Verfassung" can also mean a person's mental or physical state (e.g., seelische Verfassung — mental condition).

Similar words include:

  • Grundgesetz (basic law; specifically for Germany’s constitutional law)
  • Konstitution (constitution, more formal/legal term)
  • Zustand (state or condition, often for health or mood)

Differences:

  • Verfassung refers specifically to the formal, organized legal foundation of a country or to physical/mental condition in a personal context.
  • Grundgesetz is the specific official constitution of Germany.
  • Konstitution is more formal/legal and less common in everyday speech.
  • Zustand is broader, used for general states or conditions, not necessarily legal.

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Examples

Die Verfassung sichert die grundlegenden Rechte und Freiheiten eines Landes.noun

The constitution safeguards the fundamental rights and freedoms of a country.

Eine robuste Verfassung ist wichtig für den Staat.noun

A robust constitution is important for the state.

Unsere Verfassung ist sehr wichtig für das Zusammenleben.noun

Our constitution is very important for living together.

Die Verfassung eines Landes definiert seine Grundrechte und -gesetze.noun

The constitution of a country defines its fundamental rights and laws.

Nach vielen politischen Diskussionen wurde die neue Verfassung endlich angenommen.noun

After many political discussions, the new constitution was finally adopted.

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