German word

behandeln

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈhandl̩n/

Meaning

  • verbdiscuss

Example

Wir behandeln das Thema morgen.

We will discuss the topic tomorrow.

Illustration for behandeln (discuss)

More examples

Sie behandelt ihre Gäste freundlich.

She treats her guests kindly.

Core concept

A person, problem, or topic receives deliberate hands-on attention through care, practical work, or discussion.

Common phrases

  • ein Thema behandeln

    discuss a topic

  • ein Problem behandeln

    address a problem

  • jemanden behandeln

    treat someone

Similar words

besprechen: Talk through content or procedures to reach a decision.
diskutieren: Exchange views while weighing different positions or ideas.
ansprechen: Bring up a topic in conversation.
umgehen mit: Deal with a difficult matter or person in a practical way.

Definition in German

eine Person, ein Problem oder ein Thema auf eine bestimmte Art versorgen, bearbeiten oder diskutieren

Word origin

Behandeln combines the prefix be- with handeln, a verb historically related to Hand, and extends handling something to treating or dealing with it.

Usage tips

  • Behandeln takes an accusative object, as in "ein Thema behandeln", rather than requiring a preposition.

Other meanings

  • treatverb
  • processverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word