event
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event / incident
An event, incident, or story that happened. The term is often used for notable or unusual occurrences.
Der Roman basiert auf einer wahren Begebenheit aus dem 19. Jahrhundert.
The novel is based on a true event from the 19th century.
The noun 'die Begebenheit' (event/incident) is derived from the verb 'sich begeben', which in old-fashioned language can mean 'to happen' or 'to occur'. A Begebenheit is therefore something that has happened.
Es begab sich zu der Zeit, dass ein Gebot von dem Kaiser Augustus ausging.
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus.
The word 'Begebenheit' (event/incident) belongs more to written language or storytelling. It sounds more formal and is often used for noteworthy or story-worthy events.
Der Großvater erzählte oft von den seltsamen Begebenheiten seiner Jugend.
The grandfather often told stories of the strange events of his youth.
A very common expression is 'auf einer wahren Begebenheit beruhen' (to be based on a true event), which is often used for films or books. Other typical adjectives are 'eine seltsame Begebenheit' (a strange event) or 'eine denkwürdige Begebenheit' (a memorable event).
Dieser Film beruht auf einer wahren Begebenheit.
This film is based on a true event.
story / history
'die Geschichte' and 'die Begebenheit' can both be about something that happened. 'Geschichte' is much more general: it can be true or invented and is often meant as a story. Colloquially, it can also mean a matter or an incident. 'Begebenheit' refers more to a real event, often something special or noteworthy. The word sounds somewhat elevated and less everyday. Learners may confuse the words because a 'Begebenheit' can also be told as a 'Geschichte'. If the focus is on the telling, 'Geschichte' fits better; if the real incident itself is meant, 'Begebenheit' is more precise.
Der alte Mann berichtete von einer seltsamen Begebenheit im Park.
The old man reported a strange incident in the park.
Im Zug erzählt mir Lena eine lustige Geschichte aus ihrer Kindheit.
On the train, Lena tells me a funny story from her childhood.