to certify / attest
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certify
To officially certify or confirm something, usually in written form. Often used in medical or official contexts.
Der Arzt attestierte ihm die volle Arbeitsfähigkeit.
The doctor certified that he was fully fit for work.
'Attestieren' (to certify / attest) is almost always used with a dative object (the person or thing) and an accusative object (the quality or condition). The fixed structure is: jemandem etwas attestieren (to certify/attest something to someone).
Die Kritiker attestierten dem Film eine herausragende künstlerische Qualität.
The critics attested outstanding artistic quality to the film.
The verb 'attestieren' (to certify / attest) is closely related to the noun 'das Attest' (certificate), which refers to a written certificate, usually from a doctor. This connection helps you remember the meaning of official confirmation.
Für die Prüfung benötigte er ein Attest vom Arzt.
He needed a doctor's note for the exam.
'Attestieren' (to certify / attest) is a formal word that appears mainly in written language, in official documents, or in elevated speech. It is rarely used in normal everyday life.
Dem Unternehmen wurde in einem offiziellen Schreiben eine hohe Innovationskraft attestiert.
In an official letter, the company was certified as having a high level of innovative strength.
If the object being attested is an official status, e.g. 'Arbeitsunfähigkeit' (incapacity for work), the official meaning is intended. If it is an abstract quality, e.g. 'Mut' (courage) or 'Talent' (talent), it means to attribute that quality to someone.
Ich kann ihm nur attestieren, dass er ein großes Talent für Musik hat.
I can only attest that he has a great talent for music.
to confirm
'bestätigen' and 'attestieren' can both mean that something is declared to be correct or present. 'bestätigen' is the more general word and fits appointments, information, impressions, or opinions. 'attestieren' sounds more official and is often used in writing, especially with doctors, authorities, or expert reports. In addition, with 'attestieren' you can attribute a quality or ability to someone. The words are easy to confuse because both express a kind of confirmation. When it is about a simple response, 'bestätigen' is more natural; when something is officially certified, 'attestieren' fits better.
Die Ärztin attestiert dem Patienten, dass er eine Woche nicht arbeiten kann.
The doctor certifies that the patient cannot work for a week.
Frau Hoffmann bestätigt den Kunden den neuen Liefertermin.
Ms. Hoffmann confirms the new delivery date to the customers.