questioning / survey
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questioning
The process in which one or more people are asked targeted questions in order to obtain information, e.g. by the police or in market research.
Die Befragung der Zeugen durch die Polizei dauerte mehrere Stunden.
The questioning of the witnesses by the police lasted several hours.
survey
A systematic collection of opinions or data through questions; a survey.
Eine aktuelle Befragung zeigt, dass die Zufriedenheit mit der Regierung gesunken ist.
A recent survey shows that satisfaction with the government has decreased.
'Die Befragung' (questioning/survey) is the noun related to the verb 'befragen' (to question/interview). The prefix 'be-' turns 'fragen' (to ask) into a targeted action directed at a person or group. The ending '-ung' turns it into the process itself.
Die Journalistin befragte den Politiker zu seinen Plänen.
The journalist questioned the politician about his plans.
The context shows what kind of 'Befragung' (questioning/survey) is meant. In connection with the police, court, or witnesses, it is a formal questioning or interrogation. In the context of studies, market research, or opinions, it means a survey.
Die Befragung des Verdächtigen fand auf der Polizeiwache statt.
The questioning of the suspect took place at the police station.
In a police or legal context, people often speak of the 'Befragung von Zeugen' (questioning of witnesses) or the 'Befragung eines Verdächtigen' (questioning of a suspect). Such questioning is often carried out by the 'Polizei' (police) or the 'Staatsanwaltschaft' (public prosecutor's office).
Die Befragung der Zeugin brachte neue Erkenntnisse.
The questioning of the witness brought new findings.
In the sense of a survey, typical verbs are 'eine Befragung durchführen' (to conduct a survey) or 'an einer Befragung teilnehmen' (to participate in a survey). Adjectives like 'repräsentativ' (representative), 'online' (online), or 'telefonisch' (by phone) describe the type of survey.
Das Institut führt regelmäßig telefonische Befragungen durch.
The institute regularly conducts telephone surveys.
interview
An Interview and a Befragung both consist of targeted questions asked to obtain information. Interview generally refers to a connected conversation, often for the media, research, or forming opinions, while Befragung more generally names the process of obtaining information. Choose Interview for this type of conversation and Befragung for the neutral process.
Bei der Befragung beantworteten die Kunden Fragen zu ihrem Einkauf.
During the questioning, the customers answered questions about their purchases.
Die Journalistin führte ein Interview mit der Sängerin für die Zeitung.
The journalist interviewed the singer for the newspaper.
