communication / agreement / notification
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communication
The process of communication in which people understand each other, especially when they speak different languages or have different views.
Trotz der Sprachbarriere war die Verständigung mit Händen und Füßen möglich.
Despite the language barrier, communication was possible with hands and feet.
'Die Verständigung' (communication/agreement/notification) is a noun derived from the verb 'sich verständigen' (to communicate/reach an agreement). The verb in turn is based on 'verstehen' (to understand). The ending '-ung' turns the verb into a feminine noun that describes the process or the result.
Wir müssen uns über die nächsten Schritte verständigen.
We need to agree on the next steps.
You can recognize the meaning from the context: If it is about communication (often with 'zwischen' [between]), meaning 1 is intended. If it is about the result of a negotiation (often with 'zu ... kommen' [to come to ...]), meaning 2 is intended. In an official or police context, meaning 3 is usually intended.
Die Verständigung zwischen den Kulturen ist eine große Herausforderung.
Communication between cultures is a major challenge.
When it is about communication, 'Verständigung' (communication) is often used with the prepositions 'zwischen' (between people/groups) and 'über' (about a topic).
Die Verständigung zwischen den Teammitgliedern war ausgezeichnet.
Communication between the team members was excellent.
In the meaning of 'agreement', the fixed expression 'zu einer Verständigung kommen' (to come to an agreement) or 'eine Verständigung erzielen' (to reach an agreement) is often used. This describes reaching a compromise.
Nach stundenlangen Verhandlungen konnten sie eine Verständigung erzielen.
After hours of negotiations, they were able to reach an agreement.
The meaning 'notification' belongs to formal official language (bureaucratic German). In everyday life, this word is rarely used in this sense.
Die Verständigung des Notarztes erfolgte über die Leitstelle.
The notification of the emergency doctor was carried out through the control center.
information
'die Information' and 'die Verständigung' can both have to do with passing on knowledge. 'Information' usually means a message, information, or specific knowledge. 'Verständigung' is more about the process in which people communicate with each other and understand each other. In formal contexts, 'Verständigung' can also mean a notification. That is why the words can be confusing. In everyday use, however, the important difference is: 'Information' is about the content, while 'Verständigung' is more about communication working or someone being officially notified.
Wegen der lauten Musik war die Verständigung im Raum schwierig.
Because of the loud music, communication in the room was difficult.
Die Information über die neue Regel kam heute per E-Mail.
The information about the new rule came by email today.