bezweifeln
to doubt
To have doubts about something; not to believe that something is true, correct, or possible.
EXAMPLE
Ich bezweifle stark, dass er sein Versprechen halten wird.
I strongly doubt that he will keep his promise.
bezweifeln
to doubt
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Meanings
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Bezweifeln' (to doubt) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'be-' remains firmly attached to the verb stem 'zweifeln' in all conjugated forms and sentence types.
EXAMPLE
Er bezweifelte ihre Geschichte von Anfang an.
He doubted her story from the very beginning.
Sentence structure with object
This verb requires a direct accusative object. This is an important difference from the verb 'zweifeln' (to doubt), which requires the preposition 'an' with the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die Expertin bezweifelt das Ergebnis der Studie.
The expert doubts the result of the study.
Use with subordinate clause
'Bezweifeln' (to doubt) is very often used with a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass' (that) or 'ob' (whether/if). The verb of the subordinate clause then comes at the end.
EXAMPLE
Ich bezweifle, dass er pünktlich kommen wird.
I doubt that he will arrive on time.
Compare with
bezweifeln vs bestreiten
to deny / cover / contest
Bestreiten and bezweifeln both show that you do not consider a statement true. Bestreiten rejects it as false or inaccurate, while bezweifeln merely expresses uncertainty. Use bestreiten for a clear rejection and bezweifeln when there is a lack of certainty.
bezweifeln
Die Kunden bezweifelten, dass die neuen Produkte wirklich sicher seien.
The customers doubted that the new products were really safe.
bestreiten
Die Firma bestritt die Behauptung, ihre Produkte seien unsicher.
The company denied the claim that its products were unsafe.
In real life
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