present
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present
An elevated way of saying 'anwesend sein' (to be present), describing that someone is present at an event or in a place.
Bei der feierlichen Eröffnung waren zahlreiche Ehrengäste zugegen.
Numerous guests of honor were present at the ceremonial opening.
The adjective 'zugegen' (present) is used only predicatively with the verb 'sein' (to be). You cannot place it before a noun.
Der Anwalt war bei der Vertragsunterzeichnung zugegen.
The lawyer was present when the contract was signed.
To name the event or situation at which someone is present, the preposition 'bei' with the dative is almost always used.
Waren Sie bei dem Unfall zugegen?
Were you present at the accident?
'Zugegen sein' (to be present) is an elevated and formal expression. You mainly find it in written language, in reports, or on official occasions.
Laut Protokoll waren alle Mitglieder des Vorstands zugegen.
According to the minutes, all members of the board were present.
there / with you
'dabei' and 'zugegen' can both say that someone is at an event or in a place. 'dabei' is the normal everyday word and can also express a sense of taking part. 'zugegen' also means present, but it sounds elevated and more formal. You are more likely to find it in reports, official texts, or very careful language. In a normal conversation, people usually say 'dabei' or 'anwesend'. 'zugegen' fits when the language is meant to sound more solemn or official.
Bei der Eröffnung waren auch mehrere Gäste aus der Stadt zugegen.
Several guests from the city were also present at the opening.
Beim Termin bin ich aus Zeitmangel leider nicht dabei.
Unfortunately, I won't be there for the appointment because I don't have enough time.