guarding / surveillance
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guarding / surveillance
The activity of watching and controlling a person, place, or object in order to provide protection, prevent an escape, or stop theft.
Die Bewachung des Museums wurde nach dem Einbruch verstärkt.
Security at the museum was increased after the break-in.
'Die Bewachung' (guarding/surveillance) is the nominalization of the verb 'bewachen' (to guard). The prefix 'be-' makes the verb 'wachen' (to watch / keep watch) transitive, so it requires a direct object (jemanden/etwas bewachen — to guard someone/something).
Die Polizei bewacht das Gebäude rund um die Uhr.
The police guard the building around the clock.
A very common construction is 'unter Bewachung stehen' (to be under guard). This describes the state of someone or something being actively guarded.
Der Gefangene steht unter ständiger Bewachung.
The prisoner is under constant guard.
The object of 'Bewachung' (guarding/surveillance) is often attached with the genitive or with the preposition 'von' (of/by). Both forms are correct.
Die Bewachung des Geländes ist sehr teuer.
Guarding the site is very expensive.
control / check
'Kontrolle' and 'Bewachung' can both mean that someone watches over something and intervenes if something is not right. However, 'Kontrolle' is much broader: you can check documents, review a plan, or control a situation. 'Bewachung' always means that a person, place, or object is being protected or watched, often by security staff. Learners may confuse the words because guarding also involves checking. When the point is protection against theft, escape, or danger, 'Bewachung' is more precise. For an inspection/check or for controlling a situation, 'Kontrolle' fits better.
Während der Ausstellung übernimmt ein Sicherheitsdienst die Bewachung der teuren Bilder.
During the exhibition, a security service takes care of guarding the expensive paintings.
Vor dem Eingang findet eine Kontrolle der Taschen statt.
Bags are checked at the entrance.