arson
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arson
The deliberate and unlawful setting fire to buildings or other property. It is a criminal offense.
Die Polizei ermittelt wegen Brandstiftung, nachdem die Lagerhalle komplett ausbrannte.
The police are investigating arson after the warehouse burned down completely.
'Brandstiftung' (arson) is a compound noun made up of 'der Brand' (fire) and 'die Stiftung'. The word 'Stiftung' here comes from the verb 'stiften', which in this context means 'to cause' or 'to establish'. So it means the 'causing of a fire'.
Er wurde wegen Brandstiftung angeklagt.
He was charged with arson.
In legal and police language, the verb 'begehen' (to commit) is used for carrying out this crime. The fixed expression is 'Brandstiftung begehen' (to commit arson).
Der Verdächtige hat zugegeben, die Brandstiftung begangen zu haben.
The suspect admitted to having committed the arson.
This word primarily belongs to the technical language of the justice system, police, and insurance. It is often found in news reports about crimes or accidents.
Nach dem Feuer im alten Fabrikgebäude ermittelt die Polizei wegen schwerer Brandstiftung.
After the fire in the old factory building, the police are investigating aggravated arson.
arson attack
Brandstiftung and Brandanschlag both involve a fire that was deliberately and unlawfully set. Brandstiftung refers primarily to the criminal act; Brandanschlag highlights the targeted attack on an object and its criminal or political motivation. The choice depends on which aspect is important.
Die Polizei ermittelt wegen Brandstiftung an dem leer stehenden Lagerhaus.
The police are investigating arson at the vacant warehouse.
Die Polizei wertet das gezielte Feuer am Rathaus als Brandanschlag.
The police classify the targeted fire at the town hall as an arson attack.
