To establish something as a fact or express it formally, often after an examination or observation. It is an elevated expression for 'feststellen' (to determine / establish).
example
Nach der Analyse der Daten musste der Wissenschaftler konstatieren, dass seine Hypothese falsch war.
After analyzing the data, the scientist had to state that his hypothesis was wrong.
Usage tips
Register and style
'Konstatieren' (to state) is a word used in elevated written language. It is often found in scientific texts, official reports, or journalism to formally record an observation or result.
EXAMPLE
In ihrem Bericht konstatiert die Kommission mehrere schwere Versäumnisse.
In its report, the commission states several serious failures.
Sentence structure
The verb is typically used in two ways: either an accusative object follows, or a subordinate clause with 'dass' (that). Both variants express the fact that has been established.
EXAMPLE
Der Gutachter konstatierte zahlreiche Mängel am Gebäude.
The expert stated numerous defects in the building.
Typical collocations
'Konstatieren' (to state) is often connected with abstract nouns that are the result of an analysis or observation. Typical phrases are: 'eine Tatsache konstatieren' (to state a fact), 'eine Veränderung konstatieren' (to note a change), 'einen Trend konstatieren' (to identify a trend), or 'einen Mangel konstatieren' (to state a defect).
EXAMPLE
Die Forscher konnten einen deutlichen Anstieg der Temperaturen konstatieren.
The researchers were able to note a significant rise in temperatures.
Compare with
confusable
konstatieren vs bestätigen
to confirm
'bestätigen' and 'konstatieren' can both have to do with something being considered correct or true. The difference lies in usage: 'bestätigen' is used when someone assures or reinforces that a piece of information, an appointment, or an impression is correct. 'konstatieren' means more that you establish something as a fact after observing it. It sounds elevated and more formal. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with truth. In practice: you confirm an appointment or an email; you are more likely to 'konstatieren' a result or a condition in a report or formal statement.
konstatieren
Die Ärztin konstatiert nach der Untersuchung eine deutliche Besserung.
After the examination, the doctor notes a clear improvement.
bestätigen
Die Werkstatt bestätigt mir den Termin vor der Reise.
The repair shop confirms my appointment before the trip.