besagen
to state
To state, mean, or have as its content. Typically used for texts, rules, laws, or theories.
EXAMPLE
Die neue Verordnung besagt, dass das Parken hier nun verboten ist.
The new regulation states that parking here is now prohibited.
besagen
to state / mean
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Meanings
etwas besagen wollen
to mean something
Expresses that something has a particular meaning, relevance, or importance.
EXAMPLE
Wenn selbst der erfahrenste Kritiker das Buch lobt, will das schon etwas besagen.
If even the most experienced critic praises the book, that really does mean something.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Besagen' (to state/mean) is an inseparable verb derived from 'sagen' (to say). The prefix 'be-' makes the verb more formal, and it is not separated.
EXAMPLE
Was besagt diese komplizierte Regel eigentlich?
What does this complicated rule actually state?
Register and style
This verb is used mainly in written language and in formal contexts. The subject is almost always a thing (a law, a study, a rule), not a person.
EXAMPLE
Die Studie besagt, dass regelmäßiger Sport die Gesundheit fördert.
The study states that regular exercise promotes health.
Sentence structure with 'dass'
'Besagen' (to state) is very often used with a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass' (that). This subordinate clause then explains the content being stated.
EXAMPLE
Die Wettervorhersage besagt, dass es morgen regnen wird.
The weather forecast states that it will rain tomorrow.
Fixed expression
The expression 'das will etwas besagen' means that a fact is significant or important. It is often used to reinforce a statement.
EXAMPLE
Er hat die Prüfung ohne Vorbereitung bestanden – das will schon etwas besagen.
He passed the exam without preparation—that really does mean something.
Compare with
besagen vs heißen
to be called / to mean
Both heißen and besagen can explain the meaning of a statement. Heißen tends to indicate what something means or what consequence it has. Besagen usually states more formally what a text, rule, or similar statement contains.
besagen
Diese Regel besagt, dass Gäste draußen warten müssen.
This rule states that guests have to wait outside.
heißen
Für uns heißt diese Regel, dass Gäste draußen warten müssen.
For us, this rule means that guests have to wait outside.
In real life
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