English–German
“understand” in German
Pronunciation
IPA/bəˈgʁaɪ̯fən/
Example
Ich begreife das nicht.
I don't understand that.
How to say “understand” in German
“Understand” in German is begreifen.
A foggy explanation becomes a solid shape held securely in the mind.
Example sentences with begreifen
Nach dem Vortrag konnte ich das Konzept begreifen.
After the lecture, I was able to understand the concept.
Tips for using begreifen
- Begreifen often suggests a fuller intellectual grasp than verstehen, while verstehen is the broader and more neutral everyday choice.
Other German words for “understand”
Verstehst du mich?
Do you understand me?
Ich erfasse das Problem nicht.
I don't understand the problem.
Ich habe sein Verhalten nicht nachvollzogen.
I couldn't make sense of his behavior.