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
Both words indicate that other people are present during an action. „In Gegenwart von“ focuses more on something happening in front of that person. „Im Beisein von“ places more emphasis on their being there as a companion or witness.
Sie unterschrieb den Vertrag im Beisein ihrer Schwester.
She signed the contract in the presence of her sister.
Sie unterschrieb den Vertrag in Gegenwart der Notarin.
She signed the contract in the presence of the notary.
