interrogation
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interrogation
A formal and intensive questioning of a person, especially by the police, the public prosecutor's office, or a court, in order to obtain information about a crime or incident.
Der Verdächtige wurde einem stundenlangen Verhör unterzogen.
The suspect was subjected to hours of interrogation.
'Das Verhör' (the interrogation) is the noun related to the verb 'verhören' (to interrogate). The base word is 'hören' (to hear). Here, the prefix 'ver-' suggests an intensive, targeted action intended to obtain information.
Die Polizei wird den Zeugen morgen verhören.
The police will interrogate the witness tomorrow.
Common verbs in this context are 'ein Verhör führen' (to conduct an interrogation), 'jemanden ins Verhör nehmen' (to take someone in for questioning), or the fixed expression 'jemanden einem Verhör unterziehen' (to subject someone to an interrogation).
Der Kommissar führte das Verhör persönlich.
The inspector conducted the interrogation personally.
The word 'Verhör' (interrogation) is used almost exclusively in the context of crime, police, intelligence services, and court proceedings. It describes formal and often pressure-filled questioning, not a normal conversation.
Im Krimi dauerte das Verhör die ganze Nacht.
In the crime novel, the interrogation lasted all night.
interview
'Interview' and 'Verhör' both mean that someone answers questions. The difference is mainly in the tone and the context. An 'Interview' is normally a planned conversation, often for the media or research, and feels more neutral. A 'Verhör' is much more serious and formal. It happens especially with the police, the public prosecutor's office, or a court, and often has to do with a crime or an incident. Learners may confuse the words because many questions are asked in both situations. But 'Verhör' sounds strict and stressful; for normal conversations, 'Interview' is much more appropriate.
Das Verhör des Verdächtigen dauerte bis spät in die Nacht.
The interrogation of the suspect lasted until late into the night.
Nach dem Unterricht nimmt die Schülerin ein Interview mit ihrer Lehrerin auf.
After class, the student records an interview with her teacher.