presence
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presence
The presence of one or more people at an event or action. The word is almost always used in the phrase 'im Beisein von' (in the presence of).
Der Vertrag wurde im Beisein eines Notars unterzeichnet.
The contract was signed in the presence of a notary.
The word is made up of the preposition 'bei' (near, with) and the nominalized verb 'Sein' (being). So it literally means 'das Dabeisein' (being present) or 'die Anwesenheit' (presence).
Sein Beisein bei der Verhandlung war absolut notwendig.
His presence at the hearing was absolutely necessary.
This word is used almost exclusively in the fixed phrase 'im Beisein von' (in the presence of) + dative. This construction emphasizes that someone is present as a witness.
Die Zeugin machte ihre Aussage im Beisein ihres Anwalts.
The witness made her statement in the presence of her lawyer.
The phrase 'im Beisein von' (in the presence of) belongs to formal language. It is often found in official, legal, or ceremonial contexts, for example in reports or at contract signings.
Der Verdächtige wurde im Beisein der Presse abgeführt.
The suspect was taken away in the presence of the press.
present / presence
'die Gegenwart' and 'das Beisein' both mean that people are present at something. 'Gegenwart' is more general and can simply mean that someone is there in the same room or situation. 'Beisein' is almost always used in the fixed phrase 'im Beisein von' (in the presence of). It sounds somewhat more formal and is especially suitable for official actions, conversations, or events. The words can be confused because both express 'Anwesenheit' (presence). In practice: 'in jemandes Gegenwart' (in someone's presence) is broader, while 'im Beisein von' fits an action where someone is explicitly present.
Der Vertrag wurde im Beisein der Anwältin unterschrieben.
The contract was signed in the presence of the lawyer.
In der Gegenwart seiner Eltern wirkt Paul immer etwas nervös.
In the presence of his parents, Paul always seems a little nervous.