der Unterzeichner
signatory
A male person who signs a document, such as a contract, petition, or letter.
EXAMPLE
Alle Unterzeichner des Vertrags sind mit den Bedingungen einverstanden.
All signatories to the contract agree to the terms.
der Unterzeichner
signatory
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Der Unterzeichner' (the signatory) is derived from the verb 'unterzeichnen' (to sign). The ending '-er' forms a noun for the male person who performs the action. 'Unterzeichnen' itself literally means to put one's writing ('Zeichen', sign/mark) 'under' a document.
EXAMPLE
Der Künstler unterzeichnete jedes seiner Werke.
The artist signed each of his works.
Sentence structure with genitive
Very often, 'Unterzeichner' (signatory) is followed by a genitive that indicates which document was signed. Alternatively, a construction with 'von' + dative is used.
EXAMPLE
Die Unterzeichner des Briefes fordern sofortige Maßnahmen.
The signatories of the letter are demanding immediate action.
Register: formal language
This word belongs to formal administrative and legal language. You typically find it in contracts, official letters, or reports about political agreements.
EXAMPLE
Der Notar las den Vertrag vor, bevor die Unterzeichner ihn signierten.
The notary read the contract aloud before the signatories signed it.
Compare with
Unterzeichner vs Zeichner
illustrator / draftsman
Both people can make something legally binding by confirming it with their signature. In this context, however, “Zeichner” specifically refers to a person who commits to purchasing securities. “Unterzeichner” is the general term for someone who signs a document.
Unterzeichner
Der Unterzeichner bestätigte mit seiner Unterschrift den Vertrag über die Anleihen.
By signing, the signatory confirmed the bond agreement.
Zeichner
Der Zeichner erklärte mit seiner Unterschrift, die neuen Anleihen zum vereinbarten Preis zu kaufen.
By signing, the subscriber declared that he would purchase the new bonds at the agreed price.
In real life
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