to state / mean
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to state
To state, mean, or have as its content. Typically used for texts, rules, laws, or theories.
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) is an inseparable verb derived from 'sagen' (to say). The prefix 'be-' makes the verb more formal, and it is not separated.
Was besagt diese komplizierte Regel eigentlich?
What does this complicated rule actually state?
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.
Die Studie besagt, dass regelmäßiger Sport die Gesundheit fördert.
The study states that regular exercise promotes health.
'Besagen' (to state) is very often used with a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass' (that). This subordinate clause then explains the content being stated.
Die Wettervorhersage besagt, dass es morgen regnen wird.
The weather forecast states that it will rain tomorrow.
The expression 'das will etwas besagen' means that a fact is significant or important. It is often used to reinforce a statement.
Er hat die Prüfung ohne Vorbereitung bestanden – das will schon etwas besagen.
He passed the exam without preparation—that really does mean something.
to say
'sagen' and 'besagen' can both have to do with meaning or content. 'sagen' is much more general and can also simply mean that someone says words. In the sense of 'something means something', it is closer to 'besagen'. 'besagen' is used especially with texts, rules, numbers, laws, or theories. It sounds more factual and formal. Learners may confuse the words because both can mean that something 'has a statement' or expresses something. As a practical rule: people say something; a contract, a rule, or a result states something.
Die neue Regel besagt, dass alle Besucher sich anmelden müssen.
The new rule states that all visitors must register.
Nico sagt am Telefon, dass er die Aufgabe verstanden hat.
Nico says on the phone that he has understood the task.