German word

bedenken

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈdɛŋkən/

Meaning

  • verbconsider

Example

Ich bedenke deinen Vorschlag.

I am considering your proposal.

Illustration for bedenken (consider)

More examples

Bevor du unterschreibst, solltest du die Risiken bedenken.

Before you sign, you should consider the risks.

Core concept

A decision sits under a mental spotlight while its possible objections are examined before acceptance.

Common phrases

  • die Folgen bedenken

    consider the consequences

  • etwas bedenken

    consider ___

Similar words

nachdenken: Think about a matter at length and in depth.
überlegen: Weigh different options or methods when deciding what to do.
berücksichtigen: Take a fact or condition into account in a judgment or action.
abwägen: Balance the advantages and disadvantages to decide which is better.

Definition in German

etwas aufmerksam prüfen und dabei mögliche Einwände oder Nachteile berücksichtigen

Word origin

The verb combines be- with denken; this prefix gives the verb an object-focused meaning that developed into careful consideration.

Usage tips

  • Unlike 'an etwas denken', 'etwas bedenken' presents the object as something whose consequences are being weighed.

Other meanings

  • keep in mindverb

Opposites

Related words

  • das Bedenkenconcernnoun
  • bedenklichworryingadjective

Word lists with this word