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.
'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
'Interview' and 'Befragung' can both mean that someone asks targeted questions in order to get information. 'Interview' often sounds like a planned conversation, for example in the media or for a job application. 'Befragung' is more general and neutral. It also fits with the police, in research, or in a survey. The words can be confused because every interview is a kind of questioning. But not every 'Befragung' is an interview: a 'Befragung' can also be short, formal, or directed at many people.
Die Befragung der Nachbarn dauerte nur wenige Minuten.
The questioning of the neighbors lasted only a few minutes.
Am Abend bereitet sich Lena auf das Interview bei der Firma vor.
In the evening, Lena prepares for the interview at the company.