01
die Besetzung
cast
The group of actors who take part in a film, play, or series.
example
Die Besetzung des neuen James-Bond-Films wurde gestern bekannt gegeben.
The cast of the new James Bond film was announced yesterday.
die Besetzung
cast / occupation
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'die Besetzung' (cast / occupation) is derived directly from the verb 'besetzen' (to occupy / to fill / to cast). The ending '-ung' forms a feminine noun from the verb that describes the action or result of the verb. This pattern is very common in German.
EXAMPLE
Die Gruppe hat den Platz besetzt.
The group occupied the square.
Context clues
You can recognize the meaning of 'Besetzung' (cast / occupation) from context. If it is about film or theater, it refers to the actors. In connection with the military and politics, it refers to the taking of a territory. If people are talking about a company, it refers to a job position.
EXAMPLE
Die Besetzung für die Hauptrolle war hervorragend.
The casting for the lead role was excellent.
Typical collocations
In the context of film and theater, 'Besetzung' (cast) is often used with verbs such as 'auswählen' (to choose), 'bekannt geben' (to announce), or 'haben' (to have). A 'Starbesetzung' means that very famous actors are in it.
EXAMPLE
Der Regisseur hat eine großartige Besetzung ausgewählt.
The director chose a great cast.
Typical collocations
When talking about a job, people often say 'Besetzung einer Stelle' (filling a position) or 'Besetzung einer Position' (filling a position). A person can also be 'für die Besetzung verantwortlich' (responsible for filling the position).
EXAMPLE
Die schnelle Besetzung der Stelle ist für das Projekt sehr wichtig.
Filling the position quickly is very important for the project.
Compare with
Besetzung vs Anschluss
connection
'der Anschluss' and 'die Besetzung' can both have to do with control over a territory in historical or political texts. 'Besetzung' generally means that a foreign territory is occupied and controlled militarily. In this relation, 'der Anschluss' refers to one very specific historical event: the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany in 1938. The words can be confused because both may be connected with power and the military. But 'Besetzung' is a general term, while 'der Anschluss' here is a specific historical name.
Besetzung
Die Besetzung des Landes dauerte mehrere Jahre.
The occupation of the country lasted several years.
Anschluss
Im Geschichtsunterricht sprechen wir über den Anschluss Österreichs im Jahr 1938.
In history class, we are talking about the Anschluss of Austria in 1938.
In real life
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