betrachten
Meaning and Usage
Betrachten means "to consider" or "to regard" in English. It is used to express the action of looking at something in a thoughtful way or considering something from a particular viewpoint.
Linguistic Analysis
"Betrachten" is a verb in German. It is a combination of the prefix "be-" (indicating thoroughness or completion) and the root "trachten" (meaning "to strive" or "to aim"). The word "betrachten" dates back to Middle High German and has evolved into its current form.
Comparisons between German and English
The verb "betrachten" in German can be translated to "to consider" or "to regard" in English. Both languages have a similar usage of the word in terms of considering or looking at something thoughtfully.
Cultural Context
In German culture, the act of "betrachten" often reflects a thoughtful and contemplative approach to observing or considering something. It can be used in various contexts, from art appreciation to philosophical contemplation.
Example Sentences
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Ich möchte die Landschaft betrachten. (I want to view the landscape.)
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Er betrachtete sie liebevoll. (He regarded her lovingly.)
Memory Tips
To remember the word "betrachten," think of it as "be" (indicating thoroughness) + "trachten" (to strive), implying a thorough consideration or thoughtful contemplation.
Additional Vocabulary
- die Betrachtung (the contemplation)
- betrachtend (regarding/considering)
- beachten (to pay attention to)
- erwägen (to consider)
Gender and Plural (for nouns)
N/A
Conjugation (for verbs)
- ich betrachte (I consider)
- du betrachtest (you consider)
- er/sie/es betrachtet (he/she/it considers)
- wir betrachten (we consider)
- ihr betrachtet (you all consider)
- sie betrachten (they consider)