proof / evidence
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proof / evidence
A document, piece of information, or object that proves that something is true, present, or correct. It serves as evidence or proof for a claim or entitlement.
Für die Bewerbung benötigen Sie einen Nachweis Ihrer Deutschkenntnisse.
For the application, you need proof of your German language skills.
The noun 'der Nachweis' (proof/evidence) derives directly from the verb 'nachweisen' (to prove/detect). This verb means 'beweisen' (to prove) or 'feststellen' (to determine) and consists of 'nach' and 'weisen' (to show). A 'Nachweis' is therefore the result when something has been successfully 'nachgewiesen' (proven/detected).
Der Forscher konnte die Wirkung des Medikaments eindeutig nachweisen.
The researcher was able to clearly prove the effect of the medication.
The preposition helps you recognize the meaning. 'Ein Nachweis für/über etwas' (proof of/about something) usually means evidence or a document. 'Der Nachweis von etwas' (the detection of something), on the other hand, often describes the scientific determination of a substance.
Sie braucht einen Nachweis für ihre Sprachkenntnisse.
She needs proof of her language skills.
In the sense of 'Beweis' (proof), 'Nachweis' is often combined with certain verbs. Typical phrases are 'einen Nachweis erbringen' (to provide proof), 'einen Nachweis vorlegen' (to present proof), or 'einen Nachweis fordern' (to require proof).
Für den Zuschuss müssen Sie einen finanziellen Nachweis erbringen.
For the grant, you must provide financial proof.
proof / evidence
'der Beweis' and 'der Nachweis' are closely related because both can show that something is true or present. 'Beweis' often sounds stronger and is used when a claim is meant to be proven with certainty, for example in court or in science. 'Nachweis' is often used for documents, tests, or measurements that show that something is present, permitted, or fulfilled. Learners may confuse the words because a 'Nachweis' is often also a kind of 'Beweis'. In forms, government offices, and exams, however, 'Nachweis' is often more natural.
Für den Kurs brauche ich einen Nachweis über meine Deutschkenntnisse.
For the course, I need proof of my German language skills.
Sie hat einen Beweis gefunden, dass die Rechnung schon bezahlt wurde.
She found proof that the invoice had already been paid.