noun
die Vernehmung, -en
interrogation
The German word "Vernehmung" is a noun meaning "interrogation" or "hearing" (typically in a legal or police context). It is derived from the verb "vernehmen", which means "to hear" or "to interrogate".
- nehmen means "to take" (root in "vernehmen" but not used standalone here)
- The prefix ver- often denotes an action related to the root verb with a specific nuance.
Similar words:
- Befragung (interview, questioning)
- Verhören (interrogation, often implying suspicion)
- Anhörung (hearing, often formal or official)
- Befundaufnahme (taking the finding, less common)
Differences:
- Vernehmung is more formal/legal and often refers to questioning by authorities.
- Befragung is more neutral and can be used for interviews or surveys.
- Verhören has a negative connotation, often implying coercion or rigorous questioning.
- Anhörung is a formal hearing but less focused on active questioning.
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Examples
Die Vernehmung findet heute statt.noun
The interrogation is taking place today.
Er ist nervös vor der Vernehmung.noun
He is nervous before the interrogation.
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