bekennen

The German word "bekennen" is a verb that means "to confess" or "to admit".

• It is made up of the verb root "kennen", which means "to know".
• The prefix "be-" often turns a verb into a causative or intensifying form.

So, "bekennen" originally relates to "acknowledging" or "owning" something you know, often with a connotation of confessing or openly stating.

Similar words:

• "zugeben" – to admit
• "geständigen" – to confess
• "preisgeben" – to reveal or give away (often secrets)

Differences:

• "bekennen" is often stronger and formal, used for confessions (e.g., religious faith or crimes).
• "zugeben" is more about admitting facts or faults.
• "preisgeben" implies revealing information, usually unintentionally or unwillingly.

In summary, "bekennen" connotes a clear and deliberate confession or declaration.