German word

Instanz

Pronunciation

IPA/ɪnˈstant͡s/

Meaning

  • feminine nounauthority

Example

Bei Fragen wenden Sie sich an die zuständige Instanz.

If you have any questions, please contact the relevant authority.

Illustration for Instanz (authority)

More examples

Das Urteil wurde in zweiter Instanz bestätigt.

The judgment was upheld at second instance.

Core concept

A recognized decision point in an organization or appeal process handles a case and can issue an authoritative ruling.

Common phrases

  • in zweiter Instanz

    at second instance

  • zuständige Instanz

    competent authority

  • oberste Instanz

    highest court

Similar words

Stelle: An organizational office or contact point handles a procedure or inquiry.
Behörde: A government agency carries out public duties for the state or municipality.
Amt: An administrative office handles a defined public service or function.

Definition in German

eine organisatorische Einheit, an die man sich wendet, wenn eine konkrete Angelegenheit bearbeitet oder entschieden werden muss.

Word origin

German Instanz comes from Medieval Latin instantia, based on Latin instare, meaning 'to press or stand near', and developed into a term for a deciding authority.

Usage tips

  • Instanz is a formal term; everyday German often uses zuständige Stelle for the office responsible for a matter.

Other meanings

  • instancenoun

Related words

  • Oberinstanzhigher courtnoun
  • Unterinstanzlower courtnoun

Word lists with this word