German word

betreffen

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈtrɛfn̩/

Meaning

  • verbconcern

Example

Das Problem betrifft viele Menschen.

The problem concerns many people.

Illustration for betreffen (concern)

More examples

Wen betrifft diese Frage?

Who does this question concern?

Core concept

A fact or event lands on a person, thing, or area of responsibility.

Common phrases

  • betrifft jeden

    concern everyone

  • betrifft viele Leute

    concern many people

  • betrifft das Projekt

    concern the project

Similar words

es geht um: To be about a particular subject or topic.
angehen: To concern or affect someone directly.
zutreffen: To apply to a person, situation, or set of circumstances.

Definition in German

jemanden/etwas betreffen heißt, dass eine Sache auf diese Person oder Sache Bezug nimmt oder ihre Situation beeinflusst.

Word origin

German formed betreffen from be- and treffen; the older idea of something meeting or striking someone broadened into the modern sense of affecting or concerning them.

Usage tips

  • The past participle is betroffen, as in Viele Menschen sind betroffen, while the simple past is betraf.

Other meanings

  • affectverb
  • apply toverb

Related words

Word lists with this word