to attend / to be inherent
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to attend
To be present at an event, ceremony, or meeting as a spectator or participant. This word is usually used in a formal or elevated context.
Der Botschafter wohnte der feierlichen Eröffnung der Ausstellung bei.
The ambassador attended the ceremonial opening of the exhibition.
'Beiwohnen' (to attend / to be inherent) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'bei' goes at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Kanzler wohnte der Sitzung persönlich bei.
The chancellor personally attended the meeting.
The verb 'beiwohnen' (to attend / to be inherent) is always used with the dative. You attend 'einer Sache' (a thing/event in the dative), not 'eine Sache' (a thing/event in the accusative).
Ich konnte dem Konzert leider nicht beiwohnen.
Unfortunately, I could not attend the concert.
In the meaning 'anwesend sein' (to be present), 'beiwohnen' (to attend) belongs to formal or elevated language. It is often found in official reports, invitations, or in the press.
Zahlreiche Gäste wohnten dem Staatsbankett bei.
Numerous guests attended the state banquet.
Typically, one attends formal occasions with 'beiwohnen'. Common combinations are: 'einer Sitzung beiwohnen' (to attend a meeting), 'einer Verhandlung beiwohnen' (to attend a hearing/trial), 'einer Zeremonie beiwohnen' (to attend a ceremony), or 'einer Vorstellung beiwohnen' (to attend a performance).
Die Richter wohnten der Urteilsverkündung bei.
The judges attended the pronouncement of the verdict.
When a quality is 'innewohnt' (inherent in) something, the subject of the sentence is the thing itself. The quality that is inherent in it often appears as a noun in the sentence.
Dieser Musik wohnt eine besondere Kraft bei.
A special power is inherent in this music.
to visit
'besuchen' and 'beiwohnen' can both mean that you are present at an event. 'besuchen' is the normal word in everyday language: you can attend a concert, a course, a trade fair, or an event. 'beiwohnen' is much more formal and is more likely to be used for ceremonies, meetings, or official events. It emphasizes that you are there as a participant or spectator. In normal conversations, 'beiwohnen' often sounds too elevated. For everyday situations, 'besuchen' usually fits; for ceremonial or official contexts, 'beiwohnen' can be more precise.
Mehrere Gäste haben der feierlichen Eröffnung des neuen Rathauses beigewohnt.
Several guests attended the ceremonial opening of the new town hall.
Sie besucht vor der Reise noch einen Sprachkurs.
She is attending a language course before the trip.