01
der Bezug
cover
A removable fabric covering for duvets, pillows, or upholstered furniture.
example
Ich muss am Wochenende den Bezug der Bettdecke waschen.
I need to wash the duvet cover this weekend.
der Bezug
cover / reference
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Meanings
01 / 05
Usage tips
Connection to the verb
'Der Bezug' is the noun related to the verb 'beziehen'. Many meanings become clearer if you think of the verb: 'ein Bett beziehen' (to put a cover on a bed → der Bettbezug, the duvet/bed cover), 'eine Zeitung beziehen' (to subscribe to a newspaper → der Zeitungsbezug, the newspaper subscription), 'sich auf etwas beziehen' (to refer to something → der Bezug auf etwas, the reference to something).
EXAMPLE
Er bezieht sich in seiner Rede auf eine aktuelle Studie.
In his speech, he refers to a recent study.
Context clues
You can recognize the meaning of 'Bezug' from the context. If it is about textiles for furniture or beds, it means a cover (m01). If it is about abstract relationships, it means a connection (m02). If it is about newspapers or subscriptions, it means regular receipt (m04).
EXAMPLE
Ich habe keinen persönlichen Bezug zu diesem Thema.
I have no personal connection to this topic.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'Bezug nehmen auf' (to refer to) is a formal fixed expression often used in business letters or emails. It introduces a reference to something previous and requires the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Ich nehme Bezug auf unser Telefongespräch von letzter Woche.
I refer to our phone conversation from last week.
Prepositional phrase
The expression 'in Bezug auf' (with regard to) functions like a single preposition meaning 'hinsichtlich' or 'bezüglich' (with regard to / concerning). It introduces a topic and takes the accusative. It is typical of formal written language.
EXAMPLE
In Bezug auf Ihre Bewerbung haben wir noch einige Fragen.
With regard to your application, we still have a few questions.
Typical collocations
When 'Bezug' means a fabric cover, it is often used in compound words such as 'Bettbezug' (duvet/bed cover) or 'Kissenbezug' (pillowcase). Typical verbs are 'aufziehen' (to put on), 'wechseln' (to change), or 'waschen' (to wash).
EXAMPLE
Könntest du mir helfen, den neuen Bezug auf die Decke aufzuziehen?
Could you help me put the new cover on the duvet?
Correct preposition
To express a connection, 'Bezug' is often used with the preposition 'zu' (+ dative) or 'zwischen' (+ dative).
EXAMPLE
Der Film hat einen starken Bezug zur aktuellen politischen Lage.
The film has a strong connection to the current political situation.
Compare with
Bezug vs Verbindung
connection / association
'Verbindung' and 'Bezug' can both express a connection between things. 'Verbindung' often sounds a bit more general and can also mean real contact or a relationship. 'Bezug' is used especially when showing which topic or matter something belongs to. In texts and conversations, 'in Bezug auf' (with regard to) is very typical when narrowing down a topic. 'In Verbindung mit' (in connection with) fits better when two things work together or are considered together. Learners may confuse the words because both describe a connection. As a guide: 'Bezug' is more like asking 'What does this refer to?', while 'Verbindung' is more like asking 'What is connected to what?'
Bezug
In Bezug auf die Bewerbung fehlen noch zwei wichtige Dokumente.
With regard to the application, two important documents are still missing.
Verbindung
Die Polizei prüft eine mögliche Verbindung zwischen den beiden Fällen.
The police are investigating a possible connection between the two cases.
In real life
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