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B1 verb #3,500 الأكثر شيوعاً 10 دقيقة للقراءة

gestatten

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح gestatten في 30 ثانية
الشرح gestatten in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to use 'gestatten' in your own speaking yet, but you should recognize it as a very polite way of saying 'Can I?' or 'May I?'. You might hear it in very formal settings, like a luxury hotel or a traditional restaurant. The most important phrase to remember is 'Gestatten Sie?', which simply means 'May I?' or 'Allow me?'. It is often used when someone wants to sit at your table or pass by you in a narrow hallway. You might also see 'Rauchen nicht gestattet' on signs. At this stage, just think of it as a 'fancy' version of 'dürfen' or 'erlauben'. If you see it, know that it is about permission. Don't worry about the complex grammar yet; just focus on the polite 'Gestatten Sie?' and the 'nicht gestattet' on signs.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the A2 level, you start to see 'gestattet' more frequently on official signs and in public transport. You should understand that 'Parken gestattet' means you are allowed to park and 'Eintritt nicht gestattet' means entry is forbidden. You are also introduced to the idea that some verbs take different forms in formal situations. While you would use 'darf ich?' with friends, you might use 'Gestatten Sie?' in a job interview or when meeting a high-ranking official. You should also begin to notice that 'gestatten' is a regular verb in its conjugation (ich gestatte, du gestattest), even though it looks a bit unusual with the 'ge-' at the start. It is a good time to start recognizing the difference between a sign that says 'Verboten' (Forbidden) and 'Nicht gestattet' (Not permitted) – the latter is slightly more formal and polite.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'gestatten' in formal writing and understand its grammatical requirements. You should know that the person being permitted is in the dative case (e.g., 'Er gestattet mir die Reise'). You should be able to write formal emails or letters where you ask for permission using this verb, such as 'Gestatten Sie mir, Ihnen ein Angebot zu machen'. You also learn about the reflexive use 'sich etwas gestatten', meaning to allow oneself something, like a break or a small treat. This is the level where you distinguish between 'erlauben' (neutral) and 'gestatten' (formal). You should also be comfortable with infinitive constructions like 'Es ist nicht gestattet, hier zu rauchen'. This level is about moving from simple recognition to active, appropriate use in professional contexts.
At the B2 level, you should master the nuances of 'gestatten' compared to other verbs like 'genehmigen', 'bewilligen', and 'zulassen'. You understand that 'gestatten' carries a certain 'Amtssprache' (official language) feel. You can use it fluently in debates or formal discussions, such as 'Gestatten Sie mir eine Anmerkung zu diesem Punkt'. You are also aware of the passive-like use of the participle 'gestattet' in complex sentences. Your vocabulary is now rich enough to choose 'gestatten' specifically to create a tone of respect or to maintain professional distance. You should also be able to understand the word in legal texts or complex terms and conditions where the scope of permission is defined. You no longer confuse it with 'erstatten' or 'bestatten' because you understand the prefix logic and the root meanings.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C1 level, 'gestatten' becomes a tool for stylistic precision. You use it to convey subtle shades of authority and politeness. You might use it in academic writing or high-level business negotiations to define boundaries clearly. You are familiar with literary uses of the word and can recognize when it is being used ironically or to establish a specific persona in a text. You understand complex structures like 'unter dem Vorbehalt der zu gestattenden Ausnahme' (subject to the exception to be permitted). Your grasp of the word includes its historical connotations and its role in the 'gehobene Sprache' (elevated language). You can effortlessly switch between various synonyms of permission depending on the target audience and the specific legal or social implications of the statement.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'gestatten'. You understand its use in historical legal codes and classical literature. You can use the word in rhetorical ways, such as in the opening of a formal speech: 'Gestatten Sie, dass ich Sie auf eine Reise durch die Geschichte mitnehme'. You are aware of the most obscure collocations and can use the verb in its reflexive form to express sophisticated self-reflection or philosophical permission. You can analyze the use of 'gestatten' in political discourse to see how it frames power dynamics between the speaker and the audience. For you, 'gestatten' is not just a verb; it is a cultural marker of formal German discourse that you use with absolute precision and stylistic flair.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح

gestatten في 30 ثانية

  • Gestatten is a formal German verb meaning 'to permit' or 'to allow'.
  • It is commonly found on official signs and in professional or legal documents.
  • The person receiving permission is always in the dative case (mir, dir, ihm).
  • The phrase 'Gestatten Sie?' is a highly polite way to ask for permission.
The German verb gestatten is a sophisticated and formal way to say 'to permit' or 'to allow'. While the common word for allowing something is erlauben, gestatten elevates the register, making it suitable for professional environments, legal contexts, and high-level social etiquette. In its essence, it conveys the granting of permission from a position of authority or polite deference. You will frequently encounter this word in official signs, such as Rauchen nicht gestattet (Smoking not permitted), or in formal introductions.
Formal Permission
The act of officially allowing an action, often used in bureaucratic or legal documents to denote what is legally permissible.
Social Etiquette
Used as a polite formulaic expression when asking for permission to perform a small action, like sitting down or introducing oneself.
Historically, the word is deeply rooted in German courtly language. When you use gestatten, you are not just asking if something is okay; you are acknowledging a boundary and seeking a formal lift of that boundary. In modern German, it is less common in casual conversation among friends, where lassen or erlauben would be preferred. However, if you are at a gala, a high-end business meeting, or reading a contract, gestatten is the standard.

Darf ich gestatten, dass ich mich kurz vorstelle?

This sentence demonstrates the highest level of politeness. It translates to 'May I permit myself to briefly introduce myself?' which sounds redundant in English but is a hallmark of German 'Höflichkeitsform'. Understanding the nuance between gestatten and its synonyms is key for B1 learners moving into B2. While erlauben is functional, gestatten is stylistic. It creates a sense of distance and respect. For instance, a waiter might say, 'Gestatten Sie, dass ich die Teller abräume?' (May I permit myself to clear the plates?), whereas a friend would simply say 'Kann ich die Teller mitnehmen?'. This word is also reflexive in some contexts, such as sich etwas gestatten, meaning to allow oneself a luxury or a specific behavior. For example, 'Er gestattete sich einen kurzen Moment der Ruhe' (He allowed himself a brief moment of peace). This usage emphasizes a conscious decision to break a routine or a strict rule for a brief period. In summary, use gestatten when you want to sound educated, professional, or exceptionally polite. It is a word that commands respect and indicates that the speaker is well-versed in German social norms. Overusing it in casual settings might make you sound like a character from a 19th-century novel, so balance is essential. It is most effective in official correspondence, public notices, and formal introductions.
Using gestatten correctly requires attention to its grammatical structure, which usually involves the dative and accusative cases. The basic pattern is jemandem (Dativ) etwas (Akkusativ) gestatten. This means you grant permission *to* someone *for* something. For example, 'Der Lehrer gestattet den Schülern (Dativ) die Nutzung (Akkusativ) von Taschenrechnern.'
The Dative Object
The person receiving permission must be in the dative case. If no person is mentioned, the word is often used in the passive voice or as a participle.
In many cases, gestatten is followed by a subordinate clause starting with dass or an infinitive construction with zu. For instance, 'Die Stadtverwaltung gestattet es nicht, hier zu parken.' Here, 'es' acts as a placeholder for the infinitive phrase.

Bitte gestatten Sie mir eine Zwischenfrage.

This is a classic phrase used in debates or formal presentations. It literally asks the listener to 'permit the speaker a follow-up question.' Note how 'mir' is dative and 'eine Zwischenfrage' is accusative. Another common structure is the past participle used as an adjective: gestattet. You will see this on signs: 'Parken gestattet' (Parking permitted) or 'Eintritt nur für Befugte gestattet' (Entry only permitted for authorized persons). This usage is very common in public spaces and legal warnings. When using the reflexive form sich etwas gestatten, the 'sich' is in the dative case. 'Ich gestatte mir (Dativ) diesen Luxus (Akkusativ).' This implies a self-granted permission, often used when one is doing something indulgent.
Infinitive Phrases
When the action being permitted is a verb, use 'zu' + infinitive. Example: 'Der Chef gestattet ihm, früher nach Hause zu gehen.'
It is also important to note the word order in subordinate clauses. Since gestatten is a weak verb, its conjugation is regular: gestattet, gestattete, hat gestattet. In a 'dass' clause, the conjugated verb moves to the end: 'Ich bin froh, dass Sie mir den Einblick gestattet haben.' This translates to 'I am happy that you permitted me the insight.'

Es ist nicht gestattet, während der Fahrt mit dem Fahrer zu sprechen.

This example shows the passive-like construction often found in public transport. It uses 'es' as a formal subject. Learners should practice switching between erlauben and gestatten to feel the difference in tone. While 'Darf ich?' is 'May I?', 'Gestatten Sie?' is 'Would you permit?'—a subtle but important distinction in professional German.
You will encounter gestatten in several distinct environments, each reinforcing its formal nature. The most common place is in official signage and public regulations. If you visit a German park, a museum, or a government building, the rules of conduct will almost certainly use this word. Signs like Hunde nicht gestattet (Dogs not permitted) or Fotografieren gestattet (Photography permitted) are ubiquitous. In these contexts, gestatten sounds more authoritative and final than erlauben.
Legal and Bureaucratic Documents
Contracts, terms and conditions, and laws use this verb to define the scope of allowed activities. It provides a clear legal framework for what is 'gestattet' (permitted) versus 'untersagt' (prohibited).
Another major venue for this word is the world of professional etiquette. In a formal business meeting or a high-society event, a person might use the phrase Gestatten Sie? while reaching for a chair or before introducing a colleague. It is also the standard word used in the German parliament (Bundestag). When a politician wants to ask a question during another's speech, they ask the President of the Parliament: 'Gestatten Sie eine Zwischenfrage?'.

'Gestatten, mein Name ist Schmidt.' – A classic, slightly old-fashioned way to introduce oneself.

This specific use of Gestatten as a standalone introductory formula is iconic in German literature and older films. It implies 'Permit me to introduce myself.' While younger generations might find it a bit stiff, it still appears in formal writing and literature to establish a character's sophisticated or traditional background. In the digital world, you might see this in software settings. A pop-up might ask: Möchten Sie der App gestatten, auf Ihren Standort zuzugreifen? (Would you like to permit the app to access your location?). Even in technology, the formal tone is often maintained to ensure the user feels they are making a serious, legally binding decision. Finally, in classical music or theater, programs might state: Einlass nach Beginn der Vorstellung nicht gestattet (Entry after the start of the performance not permitted). This reinforces the word's association with order and high culture. By paying attention to these contexts, you'll realize that gestatten is the word of rules, respect, and formal boundaries.
One of the most frequent errors English speakers make when using gestatten is confusing it with its less formal cousin, erlauben. While they are often interchangeable in meaning, using gestatten in a casual setting like a party with friends can make you sound unintentionally arrogant or mock-heroic. Another common mistake is the confusion between gestatten and bestatten (to bury/inter) or erstatten (to refund). Saying 'Ich möchte Ihnen die Kosten gestatten' instead of 'erstatten' would mean you are giving them permission to have costs, rather than paying them back!
Case Confusion
Learners often forget that the person being permitted must be in the dative. 'Ich gestatte dich' is wrong; it must be 'Ich gestatte dir'.
A stylistic mistake is over-nesting the verb. Because gestatten is already very formal, adding too many other polite modal verbs like möchten or dürfen can make a sentence nearly unreadable. 'Dürfte ich Sie vielleicht bitten, mir zu gestatten...' is technically correct but practically exhausting.

Falsch: Das Parken ist hier nicht erlaubt. (Correct, but less formal). Richtig: Das Parken ist hier nicht gestattet.

In the context of signs, gestattet is the standard. Using erlaubt on an official sign isn't 'wrong', but it lacks the professional weight expected in Germany. Another subtle error involves the reflexive usage. Learners often say 'Ich gestatte mich' when they mean 'Ich gestatte mir'. Remember, you are granting something *to yourself*, hence the dative 'mir'. Misplacing the 'zu' in infinitive clauses is also common. It should be: 'Er gestattet mir, das Auto zu benutzen', not 'Er gestattet mir zu das Auto benutzen'. Finally, ensure you don't confuse gestatten with statten (which only exists in 'ausstatten' - to equip). There is no standalone verb 'statten' in modern German. By keeping these distinctions in mind—dative for people, formal context for usage, and careful prefix management—you will use gestatten like a native speaker.
To truly master gestatten, you must understand its place within the family of German verbs related to permission and possibility. The most direct alternative is erlauben. While both mean 'to permit', erlauben is the 'all-purpose' verb used in families, schools, and among friends. If a mother permits her child to watch TV, she uses erlauben. If a government permits a protest, they use gestatten.
gestatten vs. erlauben
Gestatten is formal/official; Erlauben is neutral/general. Gestatten is often used in the passive on signs.
gestatten vs. zulassen
Zulassen means 'to allow' in the sense of 'not preventing' or 'admitting'. It is often used for technical admissions (e.g., a car allowed on the road) or emotional states.
Another close relative is bewilligen. This specifically means 'to grant' or 'to approve', usually in the context of money, applications, or official requests. If your vacation request is approved, it is bewilligt. Gestatten is more about the act of giving permission, while bewilligen is about the formal approval of a request.

Das Einverständnis geben – To give consent (A noun-based alternative).

For very formal legal contexts, you might see genehmigen. This is often used for building permits (Baugenehmigung). Gestatten is broader and can be used for interpersonal politeness, whereas genehmigen is strictly administrative. In the realm of modal verbs, dürfen is the most common way to express permission. 'Ich darf hier parken' is the everyday version of 'Das Parken ist hier gestattet'. When writing, choosing between these words depends entirely on the 'Register' (level of formality). If you are writing a letter to a landlord, gestatten or genehmigen is appropriate. If you are texting a roommate about a guest, erlauben or okay sein is better. Understanding these shades of meaning allows you to navigate German social structures with much greater precision and confidence.

How Formal Is It?

حقيقة ممتعة

The word is related to 'Stadt' (city) and 'Stelle' (place). Giving someone 'Statt' meant giving them the standing or position to act.

دليل النطق

UK /ɡəˈʃtatn̩/
US /ɡəˈʃtɑːtn̩/
The stress is on the second syllable: ge-STAT-ten.
يتقافى مع
bestatten erstatten matten Schatten Gatten Platten Ratten watten
أخطاء شائعة
  • Pronouncing the 'ge-' like 'jee' (it should be a soft 'guh').
  • Stressing the first syllable (GE-statten is incorrect).
  • Mispronouncing the 'st' as 'st' like in 'stone' (it must be 'sht' like in 'show').

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 3/5

Easy to recognize on signs and in formal texts once known.

الكتابة 5/5

Requires correct dative/accusative case usage and formal tone.

التحدث 6/5

Using it naturally without sounding too stiff takes practice.

الاستماع 4/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be missed in fast formal speech.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

erlauben dürfen die Erlaubnis das Verbot höflich

تعلّم لاحقاً

genehmigen bewilligen untersagen statthaft die Genehmigung

متقدم

die Konzession das Einverständnis die Billigung die Autorisierung die Legitimation

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Dative Case for Persons

Ich gestatte *ihm* (Dat) das Rauchen.

Infinitive with 'zu'

Es ist nicht gestattet, hier *zu* parken.

Reflexive Dative

Ich gestatte *mir* (Dat) eine Pause.

Subordinate Clause Word Order

Ich hoffe, dass Sie mir den Einblick *gestatten*.

Passive Voice with Dative

Mir wurde der Zutritt *gestattet*.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

Gestatten Sie?

May I? / Allow me?

Standalone formal question.

2

Rauchen nicht gestattet.

Smoking not permitted.

Passive participle on a sign.

3

Ist das gestattet?

Is that allowed?

Simple question with 'sein'.

4

Parken gestattet.

Parking permitted.

Common sign usage.

5

Gestatten Sie, mein Name ist Müller.

Allow me, my name is Müller.

Introductory formula.

6

Hier ist es nicht gestattet.

It is not permitted here.

Use of 'es' as subject.

7

Hunde gestattet.

Dogs permitted.

Short form on signs.

8

Bitte gestatten Sie mir das.

Please allow me that.

Imperative with dative 'mir'.

1

Der Lehrer gestattet das Handy nicht.

The teacher does not allow the phone.

Subject + Verb + Accusative Object.

2

Ist Fotografieren hier gestattet?

Is photography permitted here?

Gerund as subject.

3

Wir gestatten keine Ausnahmen.

We allow no exceptions.

Present tense plural.

4

Gestatten Sie mir, zu helfen?

Will you allow me to help?

Infinitive with 'zu'.

5

Das ist gesetzlich nicht gestattet.

That is not permitted by law.

Adverbial use of 'gesetzlich'.

6

Gestatten Sie, dass ich mich setze?

May I permit myself to sit down?

Subordinate 'dass' clause.

7

Der Chef gestattet eine Pause.

The boss allows a break.

Simple transitive use.

8

Es ist gestattet, hier zu essen.

It is permitted to eat here.

Dummy 'es' + infinitive clause.

1

Der Arzt gestattete ihm, wieder Sport zu treiben.

The doctor allowed him to do sports again.

Präteritum + Dative + Infinitive clause.

2

Ich gestatte mir einen kurzen Kommentar.

I allow myself a short comment.

Reflexive use with dative 'mir'.

3

Die Versicherung hat den Schaden nicht gestattet.

The insurance did not allow/approve the claim.

Perfekt tense.

4

Gestatten Sie mir, Ihnen dieses Buch zu schenken.

Allow me to give you this book as a gift.

Formal polite request.

5

Das Gesetz gestattet keine weiteren Verzögerungen.

The law permits no further delays.

Abstract subject (The law).

6

Er hat mir den Zutritt zum Archiv gestattet.

He permitted me access to the archive.

Perfekt + Dative + Accusative.

7

Wir gestatten uns, Sie höflich zu erinnern.

We take the liberty of reminding you politely.

Plural reflexive formal usage.

8

Ist es gestattet, die Fenster zu öffnen?

Is it permitted to open the windows?

Interrogative dummy 'es' structure.

1

Die Behörde hat den Bau des Hauses gestattet.

The authority permitted the construction of the house.

Official administrative usage.

2

Gestatten Sie eine Zwischenfrage, Herr Kollege?

Will you allow a follow-up question, colleague?

Parliamentary terminology.

3

Es wurde mir nicht gestattet, die Akten einzusehen.

I was not permitted to view the files.

Passive voice with dative 'mir'.

4

Die Umstände gestatten leider keinen Aufschub.

The circumstances unfortunately permit no delay.

Formal abstract subject.

5

Man gestattete uns einen Blick hinter die Kulissen.

We were allowed a look behind the scenes.

Impersonal 'man' + Präteritum.

6

Ich gestatte mir, auf den Vertrag hinzuweisen.

I permit myself to point out the contract.

Reflexive formal pointer.

7

In diesem Bereich ist das Parken nur Anwohnern gestattet.

In this area, parking is only permitted for residents.

Participle with dative 'Anwohnern'.

8

Der Vorsitzende gestattete dem Zeugen, Platz zu nehmen.

The chairman permitted the witness to take a seat.

Formal narrative style.

1

Die Geschäftsordnung gestattet keine Abweichungen vom Protokoll.

The rules of procedure permit no deviations from the protocol.

Highly formal institutional context.

2

Gestatten Sie mir die Bemerkung, dass dies riskant ist.

Permit me the remark that this is risky.

Polite challenge in a professional setting.

3

Es ist dem Arbeitgeber nicht gestattet, private E-Mails zu lesen.

The employer is not permitted to read private emails.

Legal/Labor law context.

4

Sollte es die Zeit gestatten, werden wir das Thema vertiefen.

Should time permit, we will deepen the topic.

Conditional clause with 'sollte'.

5

Er gestattete sich keinerlei Schwäche vor seinen Feinden.

He allowed himself no weakness whatsoever before his enemies.

Reflexive with 'keinerlei' for emphasis.

6

Das Gericht gestattete die Revision des Urteils.

The court permitted the appeal of the verdict.

Strictly legal terminology.

7

Gestatten Sie, dass ich diese Behauptung korrigiere?

May I permit myself to correct this assertion?

Polite academic correction.

8

Die Verfassung gestattet die freie Religionsausübung.

The constitution permits the free exercise of religion.

High-level political/legal usage.

1

Die ästhetische Form gestattet dem Künstler eine gewisse Freiheit.

The aesthetic form permits the artist a certain freedom.

Abstract philosophical subject.

2

Gestatten Sie mir, diesen Gedanken weiter auszuführen.

Permit me to elaborate on this thought further.

Rhetorical introductory phrase.

3

Der historische Kontext gestattet keine einfache Interpretation.

The historical context permits no simple interpretation.

Analytical academic usage.

4

Sich Fehler zu gestatten, ist ein Zeichen von Größe.

To allow oneself mistakes is a sign of greatness.

Substantivized infinitive phrase.

5

Die Gesetzeslage gestattet keinerlei Spielraum für Verhandlungen.

The legal situation permits no room for negotiation.

Total negation in a formal context.

6

Es sei mir gestattet, auf die Dringlichkeit hinzuweisen.

May it be permitted for me to point out the urgency.

Konjunktiv I (Subjunctive I) formal style.

7

Die Natur gestattet keine Verstöße gegen ihre Gesetze.

Nature permits no violations of its laws.

Personification of nature as an authority.

8

Man möge mir gestatten, eine persönliche Anekdote einzuflechten.

One might permit me to weave in a personal anecdote.

Highly archaic/formal 'möge' + passive.

تلازمات شائعة

Zutritt gestattet
Rauchen gestattet
Ausnahmen gestatten
Blick gestatten
Frage gestatten
sich Luxus gestatten
gesetzlich gestattet
höflich gestatten
Zeit gestattet
Parken gestattet

العبارات الشائعة

Gestatten Sie?

— May I? / Do you mind?

Gestatten Sie, dass ich mich hierher setze?

Nicht gestattet.

— Not allowed (Strict/Formal).

Das Mitbringen von Speisen ist nicht gestattet.

Gestatten, mein Name ist...

— Allow me, my name is...

Gestatten, mein Name ist Bond, James Bond.

Sich eine Pause gestatten

— To allow oneself a break.

Nach der Arbeit gestatte ich mir eine Pause.

Wenn es die Umstände gestatten

— If circumstances permit.

Wir reisen morgen ab, wenn es die Umstände gestatten.

Es ist mir nicht gestattet

— I am not allowed to (Formal).

Es ist mir nicht gestattet, darüber zu sprechen.

Jemandem Einblick gestatten

— To allow someone insight/to look into.

Die Firma gestattete uns Einblick in die Bilanzen.

Wie es das Gesetz gestattet

— As the law permits.

Wir handeln so, wie es das Gesetz gestattet.

Gestatten Sie mir den Hinweis

— Allow me to point out.

Gestatten Sie mir den Hinweis auf Seite vier.

Sich keine Fehler gestatten

— To allow oneself no mistakes.

In diesem Job darf man sich keine Fehler gestatten.

يُخلط عادةً مع

gestatten vs bestatten

Means 'to bury' or 'to inter'. Don't confuse permission with funerals!

gestatten vs erstatten

Means 'to refund' or 'to reimburse'. 'Kosten erstatten' is correct, not 'Kosten gestatten'.

gestatten vs ausstatten

Means 'to equip' or 'to furnish'. It shares the same root but a different prefix.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"Sich Freiheiten gestatten"

— To take liberties or behave too casually.

Er gestattet sich gegenüber dem Chef zu viele Freiheiten.

Neutral
"Wenn es die Zeit gestattet"

— If time allows (common polite closing).

Wir sehen uns das morgen an, wenn es die Zeit gestattet.

Formal
"Gestatten Sie mir die Bemerkung"

— A polite way to introduce a criticism or observation.

Gestatten Sie mir die Bemerkung, dass Ihr Plan Lücken hat.

Formal
"Sich ein Urteil gestatten"

— To permit oneself to judge something.

Ich kann mir darüber noch kein Urteil gestatten.

Formal
"Keinen Aufschub gestatten"

— To permit no delay (urgent).

Die Situation gestattet keinen Aufschub.

Formal
"Sich ein Vergnügen gestatten"

— To treat oneself to a pleasure.

Einmal im Jahr gestattet er sich dieses Vergnügen.

Neutral
"Jemandem das Wort gestatten"

— To allow someone to speak (in a meeting).

Der Vorsitzende gestattete dem Redner das Wort.

Official
"Sich eine Ausnahme gestatten"

— To allow oneself an exception.

Heute gestatte ich mir eine Ausnahme von meiner Diät.

Informal
"Den Zutritt gestatten"

— To grant entry (standard phrase).

Der Wachmann gestattete uns den Zutritt.

Neutral
"Sich eine Frage gestatten"

— To take the liberty of asking a question.

Darf ich mir eine persönliche Frage gestatten?

Very Formal

سهل الخلط

gestatten vs erlauben

Both mean to allow.

Erlauben is for everyday use; gestatten is for formal or official rules.

Mutti erlaubt es, aber das Gesetz gestattet es nicht.

gestatten vs genehmigen

Both used in formal contexts.

Genehmigen usually involves a written application or official approval process.

Die Behörde genehmigt den Bau.

gestatten vs zulassen

Both mean allow/permit.

Zulassen means to admit someone to a group or to allow a vehicle on the road.

Er wurde zur Prüfung zugelassen.

gestatten vs dulden

Similar meaning of 'letting it happen'.

Dulden implies tolerance of something negative, while gestatten is a positive granting of permission.

Ich dulde deinen Lärm nicht.

gestatten vs bewilligen

Both formal granting of permission.

Bewilligen is specifically for money, grants, or formal requests.

Der Kredit wurde bewilligt.

أنماط الجُمل

A1

Ist [Aktivität] gestattet?

Ist Rauchen gestattet?

A2

[Person] gestattet [Sache].

Der Chef gestattet die Pause.

B1

Jemandem (Dat) gestatten, zu + Infinitiv.

Er gestattet mir, hier zu bleiben.

B1

Sich (Dat) etwas (Akk) gestatten.

Ich gestatte mir ein Eis.

B2

Es ist (nicht) gestattet, dass...

Es ist nicht gestattet, dass man hier laut Musik hört.

C1

Unter dem Vorbehalt, dass... gestattet wird.

Unter dem Vorbehalt, dass die Ausnahme gestattet wird.

C1

Gestatten Sie mir den Hinweis/die Bemerkung...

Gestatten Sie mir die Bemerkung, dass das falsch ist.

C2

Es sei mir gestattet, ...

Es sei mir gestattet, kurz zu widersprechen.

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

Gestattung (Permission/Authorization)

الأفعال

gestatten
ausstatten (to equip)
bestatten (to bury)
erstatten (to refund)

الصفات

gestattet (permitted)
unstatthaft (inadmissible)

مرتبط

Erlaubnis
Genehmigung
Verbot
Zulassung
Statte
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كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

High in official contexts, medium in general formal speech.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Ich gestatte dich. → Ich gestatte dir.

    The person being permitted must be in the dative case, not accusative.

  • Es ist erlaubt zu rauchen hier. → Es ist gestattet, hier zu rauchen.

    While 'erlaubt' is okay, 'gestattet' is better for signs, and the 'hier' should come before the infinitive.

  • Ich möchte die Kosten gestatten. → Ich möchte die Kosten erstatten.

    Gestatten means to permit; erstatten means to refund. Confusing them is a common prefix error.

  • Gestatten Sie mich vorzustellen? → Gestatten Sie mir, mich vorzustellen?

    You need the dative 'mir' for the permission and 'mich' for the reflexive introduction.

  • Das Parken ist nicht gestatten. → Das Parken ist nicht gestattet.

    You must use the past participle 'gestattet' as an adjective, not the infinitive.

نصائح

Use for Professionalism

When writing to a professor or a boss, use 'gestatten' to show you respect the formal boundaries of the relationship.

Remember the Dative

Always use 'mir', 'dir', 'ihm', etc., with gestatten. 'Gestatten Sie mir...' is the standard polite opening.

Sign Language

When you see 'gestattet' on a sign, it's an official rule. Treat it with more weight than a casual suggestion.

Elegant Introductions

Use 'Gestatten, [Name]' at a gala or formal event to make a memorable, sophisticated impression.

Self-Permission

Use 'Ich gestatte mir...' when you are doing something special for yourself, like taking an extra day off.

Legal Accuracy

In legal contexts, 'gestatten' is used to define what is permissible. Use it in contracts to sound precise.

Identify Authority

The person using 'gestatten' is usually the one in charge or the one showing the most politeness in the room.

Vary Your Verbs

In a long formal text, switch between 'gestatten' and 'erlauben' to avoid repetition, but keep 'gestatten' for the most important points.

German Politeness

Understand that 'Gestatten Sie?' is a key part of German 'Knigge' (etiquette) rules.

Status & Statten

Associate 'gestatten' with 'status'. You are granting the status of permission.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of a 'Statue'. A statue stands still. 'Gestatten' is giving someone the 'status' to move or act where they were standing still.

ربط بصري

Imagine a formal butler opening a large golden gate and saying 'Gestatten Sie?' as he bows.

Word Web

Erlaubnis Formal Sign Polite Law Dative Rules Permission

تحدٍّ

Try to use 'Gestatten Sie?' instead of 'Darf ich?' three times today in a formal context.

أصل الكلمة

From Middle High German 'gestaten', which meant 'to allow' or 'to place somewhere'.

المعنى الأصلي: Originally related to 'Statt' (place), implying to give someone a place or room to do something.

Germanic (Indo-European).

السياق الثقافي

None, but using it with friends might sound sarcastic or overly stiff.

The English 'permit' or 'allow' is less formal than 'gestatten'. English speakers often use 'May I?' where Germans use 'Gestatten Sie?'.

The classic introduction formula 'Gestatten, mein Name ist...' in German cinema. Parliamentary debates in the Bundestag. Signage in the Berlin U-Bahn.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Public Places

  • Rauchen nicht gestattet
  • Hunde gestattet
  • Parken gestattet
  • Zutritt nicht gestattet

Business Meetings

  • Gestatten Sie eine Frage?
  • Gestatten Sie mir den Hinweis
  • Wir gestatten keine Ausnahmen
  • Gestatten Sie, dass ich vorstelle

Legal Documents

  • Gesetzlich gestattet
  • Vertraglich gestattet
  • Die Gestattung erfolgt
  • Wie gestattet

Etiquette

  • Gestatten Sie?
  • Sich einen Luxus gestatten
  • Sich ein Urteil gestatten
  • Darf ich mir gestatten?

Education

  • Der Lehrer gestattet
  • Die Benutzung ist gestattet
  • Ausnahmen werden gestattet
  • Nicht gestattete Hilfsmittel

بدايات محادثة

"Gestatten Sie, dass ich mich zu Ihnen setze?"

"Ist es in Ihrem Land gestattet, in Parks zu grillen?"

"Welche kleinen Luxusartikel gestatten Sie sich im Alltag?"

"Würden Sie Ihren Kindern gestatten, alleine zu verreisen?"

"Gestatten Sie mir eine persönliche Frage zu Ihrem Beruf?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Schreiben Sie über eine Situation, in der Ihnen der Zutritt nicht gestattet wurde. Wie haben Sie sich gefühlt?

Was würden Sie sich gestatten, wenn Sie einen Tag lang keine Verpflichtungen hätten?

Diskutieren Sie, ob das Rauchen in der Öffentlichkeit überall gestattet sein sollte oder nicht.

Welche Regeln sind in Ihrer Firma oder Schule gestattet und welche sind streng untersagt?

Schreiben Sie einen formalen Brief, in dem Sie um die Gestattung einer Ausnahme bitten.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, 'erlauben' is much more common in daily life. 'Gestatten' is restricted to formal situations and signs.

Only if you are being funny or sarcastic. It sounds very stiff and old-fashioned in a casual setting.

It takes the Dative for the person being permitted and the Accusative for the thing allowed.

It means 'May I?' or 'Allow me?'. It's used when you want to do something like sit down or pass someone.

It can be the past participle of the verb or used as an adjective meaning 'permitted'.

It is a weak verb: gestattete (Präteritum) and hat gestattet (Perfekt).

Gestatten is general formal permission; genehmigen is specific administrative or official approval.

No, it must be 'Ich gestatte dir' because the person permitted is in the dative case.

On signs in public places, like 'Rauchen nicht gestattet' or 'Parken gestattet'.

The noun is 'die Gestattung', but it is mostly used in legal or bureaucratic language.

سجّل مجاناً للنصائح والملاحظات

اختبر نفسك 106 أسئلة

writing

Write a formal sentence asking for permission to ask a question.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Smoking is not permitted here.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'gestatten' in a sentence with a dative object.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence using the reflexive form 'sich etwas gestatten'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The law does not permit any exceptions.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Create a formal introduction using 'Gestatten'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'May I?' in a very formal way.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Tell someone politely that they are allowed to sit down.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Parken auf diesem Gelände ist nicht gestattet.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 106 correct

Perfect score!

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