Erkennen



Example: Ich konnte ihn sofort auf dem Foto erkennen.

Definition


"Erkennen" means to identify or recognize someone or something based on prior knowledge or perception. It involves the ability to perceive and acknowledge the presence or identity of a person, object, or fact, often after observation or examination.

Etymology


The German verb "erkennen" comes from the prefix 'er-' combined with 'kennen' which means 'to know.' The prefix 'er-' often implies completion or achievement, so "erkennen" literally means 'to come to know' or 'to recognize.' Did you know that this verb highlights the process of gaining recognition, linking knowing something to identifying it?

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"Erkennen" appears in the Vocaplus list "German - General - (B1) - set 3", containing 113 commonly used words.
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