declaration / confession
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declaration
A public declaration or acknowledgment of one's own conviction, attitude, feelings, or affiliation with something.
Sein klares Bekenntnis zu den Menschenrechten wurde von allen begrüßt.
His clear declaration in support of human rights was welcomed by everyone.
The noun 'Bekenntnis' (declaration / confession) is derived from the verb 'bekennen' (to profess / confess). This verb means to openly admit a conviction or an act. The ending '-nis' turns the verb into a noun that describes the act or result of professing or confessing.
Er musste sich zu seinem Fehler bekennen.
He had to admit to his mistake.
'Bekenntnis' (declaration / confession) is very often combined with the verb 'ablegen' (to make / give). The phrase 'ein Bekenntnis ablegen' means to make a formal or public declaration.
Vor Gericht legte der Zeuge ein überraschendes Bekenntnis ab.
In court, the witness made a surprising confession.
The context reveals the exact meaning: if it is about politics or values, it means a public declaration. In connection with court or police, it refers to a confession. Words like 'Glaube' (faith) or 'Kirche' (church) point to the religious meaning.
Sein Bekenntnis zur Gewaltlosigkeit war für alle ein wichtiges Signal.
His declaration of commitment to nonviolence was an important signal for everyone.
If you want to express what someone professes or commits themselves to, you use the preposition 'zu' followed by the dative. This structure emphasizes affiliation with or support for an idea or group.
Das Unternehmen formulierte ein Bekenntnis zu mehr Nachhaltigkeit.
The company formulated a commitment to greater sustainability.
explanation / statement
'die Erklärung' and 'das Bekenntnis' can both be a public statement. An 'Erklärung' can fit many topics and does not have to show a personal stance. A 'Bekenntnis' is more personal: you openly stand by a conviction, an attitude, a feeling, or an affiliation. That is why the words can be confused when someone says something publicly. If it is only about factual information or a statement, 'Erklärung' fits. If someone says what they personally stand for, 'Bekenntnis' fits better.
Ihr Bekenntnis zu mehr Klimaschutz wurde von vielen Zuhörern gelobt.
Her declaration in support of more climate protection was praised by many listeners.
Herr Schwarz liest die Erklärung der Schule vor.
Mr. Schwarz reads out the school's statement.