proof / evidence
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proof / evidence
A fact, object, or line of reasoning that conclusively demonstrates the truth of a claim or state of affairs. Often used in legal, mathematical, or scientific contexts.
Die Polizei hat keine Beweise gegen den Verdächtigen.
The police have no evidence against the suspect.
'Der Beweis' (proof/evidence) is the noun related to the verb 'beweisen' (to prove). When you prove something, you provide the proof for it.
Er muss erst beweisen, dass seine Theorie stimmt.
He first has to prove that his theory is correct.
If you want to say what something is proof of, you use the preposition 'für' (for) with the accusative.
Seine guten Noten sind ein Beweis für seinen Fleiß.
His good grades are proof of his diligence.
In legal or scientific contexts, 'Beweis' (proof/evidence) is often combined with certain verbs, for example 'Beweise finden' (to find evidence), 'Beweise sammeln' (to collect evidence), 'Beweise liefern' (to provide proof/evidence), or 'Beweise vorlegen' (to present evidence).
Die Polizei konnte keine Beweise für die Tat finden.
The police could not find any evidence of the crime.
The idiom 'etwas unter Beweis stellen' (to prove something / to demonstrate something) is a fixed expression. It is used to show that you possess an ability or quality such as courage, skill, or talent.
Der neue Spieler muss sein Talent im nächsten Spiel unter Beweis stellen.
The new player has to prove his talent in the next game.
To express a feeling, 'Beweis' (proof/token) is often combined with the genitive ('ein Beweis der Freundschaft' — a token of friendship) or with 'von' + dative ('ein Beweis von Vertrauen' — a sign of trust).
Dieses Geschenk ist ein kleiner Beweis meiner Dankbarkeit.
This gift is a small token of my gratitude.
sign / symbol
'das Zeichen' and 'der Beweis' can both show that something is true or that someone feels something. The important difference is strength. A 'Zeichen' is often just a sign, indication, or message. It can mean something, but it does not necessarily make the matter certain. A 'Beweis' is stronger: it is meant to show that something is really true. With feelings, 'Beweis' can also be an action that shows love, trust, or gratitude. If you only mean an indication or clue, 'Zeichen' fits. If something is meant to be proven with certainty, 'Beweis' is a better fit.
Die Fotos sind ein wichtiger Beweis, dass der Schaden schon vorher da war.
The photos are important evidence that the damage was already there before.
Die dunklen Wolken waren ein Zeichen für schlechtes Wetter.
The dark clouds were a sign of bad weather.