to seal
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to seal
To make or confirm something as final and binding, often through a symbolic action such as a handshake, a signature, or a kiss.
Mit ihrer Unterschrift besiegelten sie den Kaufvertrag für das Haus.
With their signatures, they sealed the purchase contract for the house.
The verb is derived from 'das Siegel' (seal). The prefix 'be-' expresses that an action is applied to something. 'Besiegeln' (to seal) therefore literally means to provide something with a seal, which explains the idea of finality.
Der Notar besiegelte das Dokument offiziell.
The notary officially sealed the document.
'Besiegeln' (to seal) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'be-' remains firmly attached to the verb stem in all sentence forms and tenses.
Er besiegelt den Vertrag.
He seals the contract.
In the figurative meaning, 'besiegeln' (to seal) is often combined with abstract nouns such as 'Vertrag' (contract), 'Abkommen' (agreement), 'Schicksal' (fate), 'Sieg' (victory), or 'Niederlage' (defeat). The action used to do this is often expressed with 'mit' (with).
Mit einem Handschlag besiegelten sie die Abmachung.
With a handshake, they sealed the agreement.
The literal meaning, to close a document with a wax seal, is rare today. You mainly find it in historical texts or films. Watch for words like 'Wachs' (wax), 'Ring' (ring), or 'Brief' (letter).
Im Mittelalter besiegelte man wichtige Briefe mit heißem Wachs.
In the Middle Ages, important letters were sealed with hot wax.
to confirm
'bestätigen' and 'besiegeln' can both mean that something is made valid or certain. 'bestätigen' is often used when you say or write that a piece of information, an appointment, or an agreement is correct. 'besiegeln' sounds stronger: something is made final and binding, often through a signature, a handshake, or another clear action. In everyday language, 'bestätigen' is much more neutral. 'besiegeln' fits better when a conclusion or an important decision is being emphasized.
Mit ihrer Unterschrift besiegeln die Partner den neuen Vertrag.
With their signatures, the partners seal the new contract.
Nach dem Gespräch bestätigt sie den Termin per E-Mail.
After the conversation, she confirms the appointment by email.