01
das Bedenken
concern
A feeling of doubt, worry, or uncertainty about something. Usually used in the plural.
example
Trotz einiger Bedenken stimmte er dem Plan zu.
Despite some concerns, he agreed to the plan.
das Bedenken
concern / consideration
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word structure
'Das Bedenken' (concern / consideration) is a nominalized verb derived from the infinitive 'bedenken' (to consider). This process, in which a verb becomes a noun, is very common in German.
EXAMPLE
Das Bedenken aller Risiken ist Teil der Projektplanung.
Considering all risks is part of project planning.
Use in the plural
In the meaning of 'Zweifel' (doubt) or 'Sorge' (worry), this word is almost always used in the plural. You speak of your 'Bedenken' (concerns).
EXAMPLE
Ich habe einige Bedenken bezüglich des neuen Projekts.
I have some concerns about the new project.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Bedenken' (concerns, in the plural) are 'Bedenken haben' (to have concerns), 'Bedenken äußern' (to express concerns), or 'Bedenken zerstreuen' (to dispel concerns, meaning to take away worries).
EXAMPLE
Der Manager versuchte, die Bedenken seiner Mitarbeiter zu zerstreuen.
The manager tried to dispel his employees' concerns.
Use in the singular
In the formal meaning of 'Überlegung' (consideration), 'Bedenken' is used in the singular. It often appears in the fixed expression 'nach reiflichem Bedenken' (after careful consideration), which means 'after thorough reflection'.
EXAMPLE
Nach reiflichem Bedenken hat sie das Jobangebot angenommen.
After careful consideration, she accepted the job offer.
Compare with
Bedenken vs Zweifel
doubt
'der Zweifel' and 'das Bedenken' both express that you are not completely sure. 'Zweifel' often refers to whether something is true, right, or possible. 'Bedenken' is usually used in the plural when you have worries or objections about a plan, decision, or action. That is why the words can be confused: both show uncertainty. But if you mean 'I am not sure that it is true', 'Zweifel' fits. If you mean 'I see problems with this plan', 'Bedenken' fits better.
Bedenken
Vor dem Umzug äußerten die Eltern mehrere Bedenken wegen der hohen Miete.
Before the move, the parents expressed several concerns about the high rent.
Zweifel
Nach der schlechten Erklärung hatte Tom Zweifel, ob die Lösung richtig war.
After the poor explanation, Tom had doubts about whether the solution was correct.
In real life
Loading video examples...