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B1 noun 10 min de lecture

die Verhandlung

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces die Verhandlung en 30 secondes

Explication die Verhandlung in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'die Verhandlung' is a very advanced word that you might not need to use yourself, but you might see it in simple contexts. Think of it as a 'big meeting' where people try to agree on something like a price or a rule. You can remember it by the verb 'handeln' which means 'to act' or 'to trade'. In simple terms, a 'Verhandlung' is when two people talk to find a solution that both like. For example, if you want to buy a used bike and the person wants 100 Euro but you only have 80 Euro, you talk about it—this is a very simple negotiation. You might see this word on signs in a courthouse or in a newspaper headline. Just remember that it is a feminine word: 'die Verhandlung'. You can use it with 'gut' (good) or 'schwer' (difficult). For now, focus on recognizing it when you see it in a business or news context. It is a long word, so break it down: Ver-hand-lung. This makes it easier to read and say.

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At the A2 level, you should start to recognize 'die Verhandlung' as a formal term for a discussion where an agreement is the goal. You might encounter it in the context of work or shopping. For instance, if you are looking for a job, you might hear about a 'Gehaltsverhandlung' (salary negotiation). This is a very important word for anyone working in a German-speaking environment. You should know that 'die Verhandlung' is a noun and its plural is 'die Verhandlungen'. A common phrase you might hear is 'Wir sind in Verhandlungen', which means 'We are in negotiations'. This shows that the process is happening right now. You can also describe a negotiation as 'lang' (long) or 'kurz' (short). At this level, try to use it in simple sentences like 'Die Verhandlung war erfolgreich' (The negotiation was successful). It is also helpful to know that in a legal sense, it means a court hearing, which you might see in a TV show or a news report about a trial.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'die Verhandlung' in professional and formal contexts. You should be able to describe the process of a negotiation using appropriate verbs like 'führen' (to conduct) or 'unterbrechen' (to interrupt). You will often see this word in the news regarding 'Tarifverhandlungen' (union wage negotiations) or 'Friedensverhandlungen' (peace negotiations). It is important to understand the nuance: a 'Verhandlung' is more than just a 'Gespräch' (conversation); it is a strategic discussion with a specific goal. You should also be familiar with compound words like 'Verhandlungsbasis' (negotiation basis), which you will see in advertisements (often as 'VB'). If you see 'Preis: 50 Euro VB', it means you can negotiate the price. You should also be able to use prepositions correctly, such as 'Verhandlungen über den Vertrag' (negotiations about the contract). This level requires you to understand both the business and legal meanings of the word and to use it accurately in a variety of common scenarios.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced command of 'die Verhandlung'. You should be able to discuss the dynamics of a negotiation, using adjectives like 'zäh' (tough), 'komplex' (complex), or 'ergebnisorientiert' (result-oriented). You should understand how to use the word in more formal sentence structures, such as 'Nach zähen Verhandlungen konnten wir eine Einigung erzielen' (After tough negotiations, we were able to reach an agreement). You should also be aware of the legal terminology associated with it, like 'Hauptverhandlung' (main trial) or 'mündliche Verhandlung' (oral hearing). In a business context, you might talk about 'Verhandlungsgeschick' (negotiation skill) as a key competency. You should be comfortable using the word in professional writing, such as emails or reports, and understand its role in collective bargaining (Tarifautonomie). You can distinguish between different types of negotiations and use the word correctly in passive constructions, such as 'Die Verhandlungen wurden abgebrochen' (The negotiations were broken off).

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At the C1 level, you should be able to use 'die Verhandlung' and its related terms with high precision and stylistic variety. You understand the subtle differences between 'Verhandlung', 'Schlichtung', and 'Mediation'. You can discuss the psychological aspects of a 'Verhandlung', such as 'Verhandlungstaktik' (negotiation tactics) or 'Verhandlungsspielraum' (room for maneuver). You are capable of following complex legal or political reports where 'die Verhandlung' is a central theme, and you understand the implications of phrases like 'unter Ausschluss der Öffentlichkeit' (behind closed doors). You can use the word in sophisticated idiomatic expressions and understand its historical weight in contexts like 'die Verhandlungen zum Westfälischen Frieden'. Your ability to use the word extends to abstract concepts, such as the 'Verhandlung von Identität' (negotiation of identity) in sociological or literary contexts. You can also use the word in the genitive case and other complex grammatical structures without error, such as 'Während der langwierigen Verhandlungen des gestrigen Tages...'.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like mastery of 'die Verhandlung'. You can use the word in any context, from highly technical legal documents to abstract philosophical discourses. You understand the etymological roots and the historical evolution of the word within the German language. You can analyze the rhetoric used in 'Verhandlungen' and critique the 'Verhandlungsführung' (conduct of negotiations) of public figures. You are familiar with the most obscure compound words and can create your own if necessary for specific contexts. You understand the performative nature of 'die Verhandlung' in a legal setting and can discuss the nuances of procedural law (Prozessrecht) where 'Verhandlung' is a foundational concept. Your use of the word is characterized by perfect grammatical accuracy and a sophisticated choice of accompanying vocabulary. You can use the word to describe complex socio-political processes where different interests are 'verhandelt' (negotiated) in a metaphorical sense, and you can engage in high-level debates about the ethics and strategies of international 'Verhandlungen'.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

die Verhandlung en 30 secondes

A formal discussion (negotiation) to reach an agreement or contract.
A legal term for a court trial or judicial hearing.
Often used in plural (Verhandlungen) for ongoing business or political processes.
Can be a compound noun base, like Verhandlungsbasis (basis for negotiation).

The German noun die Verhandlung is a versatile and essential term that primarily translates to 'negotiation' in English. It is derived from the verb verhandeln, which means to negotiate, discuss, or treat a matter with the aim of reaching an agreement. In the German-speaking world, this word carries a weight of formality and structured communication, whether it occurs in a corporate boardroom, a diplomatic summit, or a court of law. Understanding die Verhandlung requires looking at its components: the prefix 'ver-' often denotes a process or a change of state, and 'Handlung' refers to an action or deed, rooted in 'Hand' (hand), suggesting a 'handling' of affairs between parties.

Business Context: In commerce, it refers to the process of discussing terms, prices, and contracts. It is the core of deal-making where two sides attempt to find common ground.

Die Firmen begannen heute Morgen eine schwierige die Verhandlung über die Fusion.

Beyond business, die Verhandlung is the standard term for a legal trial or hearing. When a judge enters the room to begin proceedings, they are opening the 'Hauptverhandlung' (main trial). This dual meaning is crucial for learners to grasp; while 'negotiation' implies a search for mutual benefit, the legal 'Verhandlung' is a formal examination of evidence and law.

Legal Context: In a courtroom, it signifies the official judicial session where arguments are heard and a verdict is eventually reached.

Die öffentliche die Verhandlung findet im Saal 104 statt.

Politically, die Verhandlung is the lifeblood of international relations. It describes the diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict or establish treaties. The word suggests a level of parity between the participants, even if one side holds more power. It is not merely a conversation; it is a strategic exchange.

Political Context: Diplomatic discussions between nations to reach a treaty or resolve a dispute are always referred to as Verhandlungen.

Die diplomatische die Verhandlung dauerte bis tief in die Nacht.

In daily life, you might use it less formally, such as when 'negotiating' with a landlord about rent or with a partner about household chores, though 'diskutieren' or 'besprechen' might be more common for minor personal matters. However, as soon as there is a formal structure or a significant outcome at stake, die Verhandlung is the correct choice. It implies that both sides have something to lose or gain and that a formal resolution is the goal.

Nach einer langen die Verhandlung einigten wir uns auf einen Preis.

Finally, the word is often paired with 'Geschick' (skill), as in 'Verhandlungsgeschick', referring to the ability to negotiate effectively. This is a highly prized trait in German career descriptions.

Ihr großes die Verhandlungsgeschick rettete das Projekt.

Using die Verhandlung correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical gender (feminine), its plural form (die Verhandlungen), and the verbs it typically associates with. Because it represents a process, it is often the object of verbs like führen (to lead/conduct), aufnehmen (to take up/commence), or abschließen (to conclude).

Starting a Negotiation: To say 'to start negotiations', use 'Verhandlungen aufnehmen' or 'in Verhandlungen treten'.

Wir müssen so schnell wie möglich die die Verhandlungen aufnehmen.

When describing the state of being in a negotiation, the preposition in is frequently used. 'Wir befinden uns in Verhandlungen' means 'We are currently in negotiations'. This suggests an ongoing, active state. If you want to describe the quality of the negotiation, adjectives like zäh (tough/slow), erfolgreich (successful), or ergebnislos (fruitless) are positioned before the noun.

Describing the Process: Adjectives provide crucial context about the progress or atmosphere of the discussion.

Es war eine äußerst zähe die Verhandlung, die Stunden dauerte.

In a legal context, the word is often modified to indicate the specific part of the trial. 'Die mündliche Verhandlung' refers to the oral hearing. If a trial is postponed, you would say 'Die Verhandlung wurde vertagt'. This specific vocabulary is essential for understanding news reports or legal documents in German.

Ending a Negotiation: To conclude or finish, use 'abschließen' (successfully) or 'abbrechen' (to break off/fail).

Die Parteien konnten die die Verhandlung erfolgreich abschließen.

You can also use 'Verhandlung' as a compound base. 'Verhandlungstisch' (negotiation table) is a common metaphorical and literal place. 'Verhandlungsbasis' (basis for negotiation, often abbreviated as VB in classified ads) indicates that a price is not fixed.

Der Preis von 500 Euro versteht sich als die Verhandlungsbasis.

Finally, pay attention to the plural. In English, we often say 'The negotiation was long,' but in German, it is very common to say 'Die Verhandlungen waren lang,' even if it was just one continuous event, as it implies many points were discussed.

Nach wochenlangen die Verhandlungen gab es endlich ein Ergebnis.

The word die Verhandlung is omnipresent in German public life, particularly in media, professional environments, and legal settings. If you turn on the evening news like 'Tagesschau', you will almost certainly hear it within the first ten minutes, usually in the context of politics or labor disputes.

In the Media: News anchors frequently report on 'Tarifverhandlungen' (collective bargaining negotiations) between unions and employers.

Die die Verhandlungen über den neuen Mindestlohn sind gescheitert.

In a professional office environment, 'Verhandlung' is a standard part of the vocabulary for sales, procurement, and management. You might hear a colleague say, 'Ich habe heute Nachmittag eine wichtige Verhandlung mit einem Lieferanten.' Here, it signals a high-stakes meeting where terms and conditions are being finalized. It sounds more serious and formal than a simple 'Besprechung' (meeting) or 'Termin' (appointment).

In the Office: Used for formal discussions regarding contracts, salaries, or procurement.

In der Gehaltsdie Verhandlung konnte ich eine Erhöhung erzielen.

Legal dramas and real-life court reporting are other major sources. When a reporter says, 'Die Verhandlung wird unter Ausschluss der Öffentlichkeit geführt,' they mean the trial is being held behind closed doors. This is a common phrase in sensitive legal cases.

In Court: Refers to the judicial proceeding. 'Gerichtsverhandlung' is the more specific term for a court trial.

Der Angeklagte erschien pünktlich zur die Verhandlung.

You will also encounter the word in everyday commerce, specifically in 'Flohmärkte' (flea markets) or when buying a used car. While the act of haggling is 'feilschen', the overall discussion about the price can still be called a 'Verhandlung'. Finally, in academic and historical contexts, you will read about famous 'Verhandlungen' that shaped the world, such as the 'Friedensverhandlungen' (peace negotiations) after major wars. The word conveys the gravity and historical significance of these events.

Die die Verhandlungen zum Versailler Vertrag waren sehr komplex.

Learners of German often encounter a few specific pitfalls when using die Verhandlung. The first and most common mistake is confusing it with similar-sounding words like die Handlung (action/plot) or die Behandlung (treatment). While they all share the root 'handeln', their meanings are distinct.

Verhandlung vs. Handlung: 'Handlung' refers to an action or the plot of a movie/book. 'Verhandlung' is a discussion to reach an agreement.

Falsch: Die Handlung über den Preis war schwierig. (Correct: Verhandlung)

Another common error is using the wrong preposition. English speakers often want to say 'negotiation for' (Verhandlung für), but in German, you negotiate 'about' something (über + Accusative) or 'over' something.

Preposition Pitfall: Always use 'über' for the topic of the negotiation. 'Verhandlungen über das Gehalt' (Negotiations about the salary).

Richtig: Wir führen eine die Verhandlung über die Vertragsbedingungen.

Confusing the legal and business meanings can also lead to awkwardness. If you say 'Ich habe morgen eine Verhandlung' without context, a German might think you are in legal trouble (a trial) rather than just having a business meeting. To be clear in business, use 'Geschäftsverhandlung' or 'Vertragsverhandlung'.

Lack of Specificity: Using 'Verhandlung' alone can be ambiguous. Adding a prefix like 'Gehalts-' or 'Preis-' makes it much clearer.

Besser: Ich habe eine Gehaltsverhandlung mit meinem Chef.

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the plural. As mentioned before, Germans use 'Verhandlungen' (plural) much more frequently than English speakers use 'negotiations'. If you always use the singular, you might sound slightly less natural in a professional context. Finally, avoid literal translations of English idioms. For example, 'to hold a negotiation' is not 'eine Verhandlung halten' (which sounds like giving a speech), but 'eine Verhandlung führen' (to lead/conduct). Using 'halten' is a classic 'Denglish' error.

Falsch: Wir halten eine Verhandlung. (Correct: führen)

While die Verhandlung is the most formal and standard term for negotiation, several other words can be used depending on the register and the specific nature of the discussion. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker.

Das Gespräch / Die Besprechung: These are more general terms for a conversation or meeting. Use these if the atmosphere is less adversarial or if there is no formal contract at stake.

Wir hatten ein klärendes Gespräch über unsere Zusammenarbeit.

If the negotiation is specifically about price and involves a lot of back-and-forth, the word das Feilschen (haggling) is used. This is common at flea markets but would be considered unprofessional or even insulting in a high-level corporate 'Verhandlung'.

Das Feilschen: Informal haggling, usually over small amounts of money or at markets.

Auf dem Basar gehört das Feilschen einfach dazu.

In a diplomatic or highly intellectual context, you might encounter die Debatte (debate) or der Diskurs (discourse). These focus more on the exchange of ideas rather than reaching a specific deal or compromise. If the goal is to resolve a conflict, die Schlichtung (mediation/arbitration) is a specialized term where a third party is involved.

Die Schlichtung: A formal process where a mediator helps two parties reach an agreement.

Die Schlichtung im Tarifstreit war erfolgreich.

Another related word is die Auseinandersetzung, which means a confrontation or a detailed examination. It is more aggressive than 'Verhandlung' and suggests a conflict that needs to be settled. Finally, in a legal sense, der Prozess (the lawsuit/trial) is often used interchangeably with 'Verhandlung', but 'Prozess' refers to the entire legal case from beginning to end, while 'Verhandlung' refers specifically to the sessions in court.

Der Prozess dauerte drei Jahre, aber die entscheidende Verhandlung war gestern.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'Handlung' once just meant 'trade' or 'shop', which is why 'Verhandlung' still carries a strong commercial sense.

Guide de prononciation

UK /fɛɐ̯ˈhandlʊŋ/

US /fɛrˈhɑndlʊŋ/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: ver-HAND-lung.

Rime avec

Wandlung Handlung Behandlung Anverwandlung Abhandlung Umwandlung Anwandlung Rundung

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'v' like a 'v' (it should be 'f').
Pronouncing the 'h' as a hard sound.
Failing to nasalize the 'ng' at the end.
Stressing the first syllable.
Mixing it up with 'Handlung'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the root 'Hand', but long compound forms can be intimidating.

Écriture 4/5

Requires correct gender and preposition usage ('über').

Expression orale 4/5

The 'ng' ending and the silent 'h' require practice for perfect pronunciation.

Écoute 3/5

Common in news and business, usually clearly articulated.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

handeln die Hand das Gespräch der Preis der Vertrag

Apprends ensuite

verhandeln die Einigung der Kompromiss die Schlichtung der Vertragsschluss

Avancé

die Mediation das Schiedsverfahren die Tarifautonomie die Prozessordnung

Grammaire à connaître

Nouns ending in -ung are always feminine.

die Verhandlung, die Handlung, die Behandlung.

The preposition 'über' takes the accusative when it means 'about' a topic.

Wir verhandeln über den (Akk) Preis.

Compound nouns take the gender of the last word.

Die Gehaltsverhandlung (feminine because of Verhandlung).

Dative case after 'in' when describing a state or location.

Wir sind in der (Dat) Verhandlung.

Genitive case for possession or belonging.

Das Ende der (Gen) Verhandlung.

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Exemples par niveau

Die Verhandlung ist heute.

The negotiation is today.

Simple subject-verb-adverb structure.

Das ist eine gute Verhandlung.

That is a good negotiation.

Use of the feminine article 'eine'.

Die Verhandlung ist schwer.

The negotiation is difficult.

Adjective 'schwer' as a predicate.

Wir brauchen eine Verhandlung.

We need a negotiation.

Accusative case for the object.

Die Verhandlung beginnt um zehn Uhr.

The negotiation begins at ten o'clock.

Present tense verb 'beginnt'.

Wo ist die Verhandlung?

Where is the negotiation?

Interrogative sentence.

Die Verhandlung ist im Büro.

The negotiation is in the office.

Prepositional phrase 'im Büro'.

Meine Verhandlung war kurz.

My negotiation was short.

Possessive pronoun 'meine'.

Wir sind in einer Verhandlung.

We are in a negotiation.

Dative case after 'in' for location/state.

Die Verhandlungen dauern lange.

The negotiations take a long time.

Plural form 'Verhandlungen'.

Ich habe eine Verhandlung mit dem Chef.

I have a negotiation with the boss.

Preposition 'mit' takes the dative.

Die Verhandlung war nicht erfolgreich.

The negotiation was not successful.

Negation with 'nicht'.

Kannst du die Verhandlung vorbereiten?

Can you prepare the negotiation?

Modal verb 'kannst' with infinitive 'vorbereiten'.

Die Verhandlung findet morgen statt.

The negotiation takes place tomorrow.

Separable verb 'stattfinden'.

Wir suchen eine Basis für die Verhandlung.

We are looking for a basis for the negotiation.

Genitive-like construction using 'für die'.

Die Verhandlung ist sehr wichtig für uns.

The negotiation is very important for us.

Adverb 'sehr' modifying 'wichtig'.

Die Firmen führen zähe Verhandlungen.

The companies are conducting tough negotiations.

Verb 'führen' is standard for conducting negotiations.

Das Gehalt ist Verhandlungssache.

The salary is a matter of negotiation.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungssache'.

Die Verhandlung wurde auf nächste Woche vertagt.

The trial was postponed until next week.

Passive voice 'wurde vertagt'.

Wir müssen die Verhandlung unterbrechen.

We must interrupt the negotiation.

Modal verb 'müssen' with 'unterbrechen'.

Die Verhandlungen über den Preis sind abgeschlossen.

The negotiations about the price are concluded.

Preposition 'über' for the topic.

Er zeigt großes Verhandlungsgeschick.

He shows great negotiation skill.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungsgeschick'.

Die Verhandlung findet hinter verschlossenen Türen statt.

The negotiation takes place behind closed doors.

Idiomatic expression for privacy.

Nach der Verhandlung gab es eine Pressekonferenz.

After the negotiation, there was a press conference.

Preposition 'nach' takes the dative.

Die Tarifverhandlungen zwischen Bahn und Gewerkschaft scheiterten.

The wage negotiations between the railway and the union failed.

Compound noun 'Tarifverhandlungen'.

Es gibt noch Spielraum für weitere Verhandlungen.

There is still room for further negotiations.

Noun 'Spielraum' (leeway/room).

Die mündliche Verhandlung beginnt in Kürze.

The oral hearing will begin shortly.

Legal term 'mündliche Verhandlung'.

Wir befinden uns in einer entscheidenden Phase der Verhandlung.

We are in a decisive phase of the negotiation.

Reflexive 'befinden uns' for state of being.

Die Verhandlungsergebnisse wurden gestern veröffentlicht.

The negotiation results were published yesterday.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungsergebnisse'.

Trotz intensiver Verhandlungen kam es zu keiner Einigung.

Despite intensive negotiations, no agreement was reached.

Preposition 'trotz' takes the genitive.

Die Verhandlungspartner konnten sich nicht einigen.

The negotiation partners could not agree.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungspartner'.

Das Protokoll der Verhandlung wurde unterschrieben.

The minutes of the negotiation were signed.

Genitive 'der Verhandlung'.

Die Verhandlung von Identitäten ist ein zentrales Thema der Soziologie.

The negotiation of identities is a central theme in sociology.

Metaphorical/abstract use of the word.

Die Verhandlung wurde unter Ausschluss der Öffentlichkeit geführt.

The trial was conducted in camera (without the public).

Legal phrase 'Ausschluss der Öffentlichkeit'.

Eine geschickte Verhandlungsführung ist in Krisenzeiten unerlässlich.

Skillful conduct of negotiations is essential in times of crisis.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungsführung'.

Die Verhandlungsposition des Unternehmens hat sich deutlich verschlechtert.

The company's bargaining position has significantly worsened.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungsposition'.

Die Verhandlungen gerieten aufgrund neuer Forderungen ins Stocken.

The negotiations came to a standstill due to new demands.

Idiom 'ins Stocken geraten'.

Es bedarf einer gründlichen Vorbereitung der Verhandlung.

A thorough preparation of the negotiation is required.

Verb 'bedürfen' takes the genitive.

Die Verhandlungsmasse umfasst mehrere Milliarden Euro.

The assets under negotiation comprise several billion euros.

Compound noun 'Verhandlungsmasse'.

Die diplomatischen Verhandlungen waren von gegenseitigem Misstrauen geprägt.

The diplomatic negotiations were characterized by mutual distrust.

Passive with 'von... geprägt'.

Die prozessuale Verhandlung vor dem Bundesverfassungsgericht war wegweisend.

The procedural hearing before the Federal Constitutional Court was groundbreaking.

Highly technical legal context.

In der Verhandlung von Machtansprüchen offenbaren sich oft tiefere Konflikte.

In the negotiation of claims to power, deeper conflicts often reveal themselves.

Abstract philosophical usage.

Die Verhandlungen zur Neugestaltung der Welthandelsordnung sind langwierig.

The negotiations for the restructuring of the world trade order are protracted.

Large-scale political/economic context.

Die Verhandlungstaktik zielte auf eine Zermürbung des Gegenübers ab.

The negotiation tactic aimed at wearing down the opponent.

Phrasal verb 'abzielen auf' + Accusative.

Das Wesen der Verhandlung liegt im Ausgleich konträrer Interessen.

The essence of negotiation lies in the balancing of contrary interests.

Substantivized infinitive 'Ausgleich'.

Die Verhandlung der Vertragsdetails erforderte juristische Akribie.

The negotiation of the contract details required legal meticulousness.

Sophisticated vocabulary like 'Akribie'.

Jede Verhandlung birgt das Risiko eines irreparablen Beziehungsabbruchs.

Every negotiation carries the risk of an irreparable break in relations.

Verb 'bergen' (to carry/hide a risk).

Die rhetorische Brillanz in der Verhandlung beeindruckte die Anwesenden.

The rhetorical brilliance in the negotiation impressed those present.

Dative case 'in der Verhandlung'.

Collocations courantes

Verhandlungen führen

Verhandlungen aufnehmen

zähe Verhandlungen

ergebnislose Verhandlungen

mündliche Verhandlung

Verhandlungsbasis (VB)

Verhandlungsgeschick

Verhandlungstisch

Tarifverhandlung

Friedensverhandlung

Phrases Courantes

In Verhandlungen stehen

— To be currently negotiating with someone.

Wir stehen in Verhandlungen mit dem Vermieter.

Zur Verhandlung stehen

— To be the subject of discussion or a trial.

Dieses Thema steht heute nicht zur Verhandlung.

An den Verhandlungstisch zurückkehren

— To resume negotiations after a break or failure.

Die Diplomaten kehrten an den Verhandlungstisch zurück.

Die Verhandlung eröffnen

— To officially start a trial or a formal meeting.

Der Richter eröffnete die Verhandlung.

Gegenstand der Verhandlung

— The topic or matter being negotiated.

Was ist der Gegenstand der heutigen Verhandlung?

Eine Verhandlung vertagen

— To postpone a trial or negotiation session.

Die Verhandlung wurde auf Montag vertagt.

Aus den Verhandlungen aussteigen

— To quit or leave the negotiation process.

Eine Firma ist aus den Verhandlungen ausgestiegen.

Verhandlungsspielraum haben

— To have room for compromise or maneuvering.

Haben wir noch Verhandlungsspielraum beim Preis?

Ein Protokoll der Verhandlung

— The official minutes or record of the discussion.

Bitte schreiben Sie das Protokoll der Verhandlung.

Verhandlungserfolg erzielen

— To achieve a successful outcome in a negotiation.

Wir konnten einen großen Verhandlungserfolg erzielen.

Souvent confondu avec

die Verhandlung vs die Handlung

Means action or plot, not negotiation.

die Verhandlung vs die Behandlung

Means medical treatment or the way you treat a topic/person.

die Verhandlung vs die Abhandlung

Means a formal treatise or essay on a subject.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Am längeren Hebel sitzen"

— To have the upper hand in a negotiation.

In dieser Verhandlung sitzt die Bank am längeren Hebel.

informal

"Butter bei die Fische geben"

— To get down to business and make a real offer.

Jetzt müssen wir in der Verhandlung mal Butter bei die Fische geben.

informal

"Die Karten auf den Tisch legen"

— To be honest about one's goals in a negotiation.

Wir sollten endlich die Karten auf den Tisch legen.

neutral

"Ein Ass im Ärmel haben"

— To have a hidden advantage for the negotiation.

Er hat noch ein Ass im Ärmel für die Verhandlung.

informal

"Über den Tisch gezogen werden"

— To be cheated or get a bad deal in a negotiation.

Ich fühle mich in dieser Verhandlung über den Tisch gezogen.

informal

"Auf Granit beißen"

— To meet stubborn resistance in a negotiation.

Bei diesem Punkt beißen wir auf Granit.

neutral

"Den Gürtel enger schnallen"

— To accept less in a negotiation due to hardship.

In den Verhandlungen mussten wir den Gürtel enger schnallen.

neutral

"Klinken putzen"

— To go from door to door to start negotiations.

Er musste lange Klinken putzen, um diese Verhandlung zu bekommen.

informal

"In den sauren Apfel beißen"

— To accept an unpleasant condition in a negotiation.

Wir mussten in den sauren Apfel beißen, um den Vertrag zu retten.

neutral

"Farbe bekennen"

— To state one's position clearly in a negotiation.

In der Verhandlung müssen Sie jetzt Farbe bekennen.

neutral

Facile à confondre

die Verhandlung vs verhandeln

It is the verb form.

Verhandeln is the action; Verhandlung is the event/process.

Wir verhandeln (verb) jetzt. Die Verhandlung (noun) ist wichtig.

die Verhandlung vs handeln

The root word.

Handeln means to act or to trade in general. Verhandeln is specifically about negotiating a deal.

Er handelt mit Autos. Er verhandelt über den Preis des Autos.

die Verhandlung vs behandeln

Similar prefix and root.

Behandeln is used for medical treatment or discussing a topic in a book. Verhandeln is for finding an agreement.

Der Arzt behandelt mich. Wir verhandeln den Vertrag.

die Verhandlung vs die Wandlung

Rhymes and looks similar.

Wandlung means transformation or change.

Die Wandlung der Stadt war beeindruckend.

die Verhandlung vs die Anwendung

Ends in -ung and has similar length.

Anwendung means application (like a software or a rule).

Die Anwendung dieser Regel ist schwierig.

Structures de phrases

Die Verhandlung ist [Adjektiv].

Die Verhandlung ist gut.

Ich habe eine Verhandlung mit [Person].

Ich habe eine Verhandlung mit meinem Chef.

Wir führen Verhandlungen über [Thema].

Wir führen Verhandlungen über den Vertrag.

Die Verhandlung wurde [Partizip II].

Die Verhandlung wurde vertagt.

Es gibt [Substantiv] für die Verhandlung.

Es gibt keinen Spielraum für die Verhandlung.

Nach [Adjektiv] Verhandlungen kam es zu [Ergebnis].

Nach zähen Verhandlungen kam es zu einer Einigung.

Die Verhandlung findet unter Ausschluss von [Substantiv] statt.

Die Verhandlung findet unter Ausschluss der Öffentlichkeit statt.

Das Wesen der Verhandlung besteht in [Substantiv].

Das Wesen der Verhandlung besteht im Interessenausgleich.

Famille de mots

Noms

der Verhandler

die Verhandlerin

das Verhandlungsgeschick

die Verhandlungsbasis

die Verhandlungsführung

das Verhandlungsergebnis

der Verhandlungspartner

Verbes

verhandeln

Adjectifs

verhandelbar

verhandlungssicher

Apparenté

handeln

die Handlung

der Handel

behandeln

misshandeln

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in news, business, and law.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'die Handlung' for negotiation. → die Verhandlung
Handlung means action or plot. Verhandlung means negotiation.
Saying 'eine Verhandlung halten'. → eine Verhandlung führen
You 'conduct' (führen) a negotiation in German, you don't 'hold' (halten) it like a speech.
Using 'für' for the topic. → über
Use 'über' + Accusative to state what is being negotiated.
Pronouncing the 'v' like a 'w'. → Pronounce it like an 'f'.
The German 'v' in 'ver-' is always an 'f' sound.
Confusing 'behandeln' and 'verhandeln'. → verhandeln for deals, behandeln for treatment.
Behandeln is for doctors or discussing a topic; verhandeln is for bargaining.

Astuces

Gender Memory

Always remember that nouns ending in -ung are feminine. This helps you choose the right articles: die, eine, der.

Compound Power

You can create many specific words by adding a noun to the front: Gehalts- (salary), Preis- (price), Friedens- (peace).

Be Prepared

In German culture, a Verhandlung requires thorough preparation. Showing up without data is seen as unprofessional.

Courtroom Context

If you read 'Gerichtsverhandlung', it specifically refers to a trial in court. It's a very common word in crime news.

The Silent H

Don't pronounce the 'h' like in 'house'. It just makes the 'a' longer and deeper. Practice saying 'haaan-dlung'.

Using the Plural

If you want to sound like a business professional, use 'die Verhandlungen' when talking about a project or a deal.

The 'Über' Rule

Always use 'über' + Accusative to specify what the negotiation is about. Example: Verhandlungen über den (Akk) Lohn.

Diplomacy

In international relations, 'Verhandlungen' are the primary alternative to 'Konflikt'. It carries a positive, constructive connotation.

Negotiation Basis

Look for 'VB' in classified ads. It’s your invitation to ask for a lower price!

Verhandlungsspielraum

This word means 'room to negotiate'. Before starting, always know what your 'Spielraum' is.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Handling' a 'Ver' (very) important deal. You use your hands to gesture and your mind to 'handle' the discussion.

Association visuelle

Imagine two people shaking hands across a table with a contract in the middle. The 'hand' in VerHANDlung is the key.

Word Web

Business Law Agreement Contract Court Judge Price Discussion

Défi

Write three sentences about a time you had to negotiate (a price, a chore, or a salary) using 'die Verhandlung'.

Origine du mot

From the Middle High German 'verhandelen', which meant to discuss or treat a matter.

Sens originel : The root is 'Hand' (hand), combined with 'handeln' (to act/trade). The 'ver-' prefix indicates a formal process.

Germanic, related to English 'handle'.

Contexte culturel

In a legal context, 'Verhandlung' implies a serious judicial process. Avoid using it jokingly if someone is in actual legal trouble.

English speakers might use 'meeting' for things Germans would call 'Verhandlung'. 'Verhandlung' sounds more serious.

The Treaty of Versailles (Versailler Verhandlungen) The Westphalian Peace (Westfälische Friedensverhandlungen) German legal dramas like 'Richter Alexander Hold'

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

In a courtroom

Die Verhandlung ist eröffnet.
Die Verhandlung wird vertagt.
Zeugen zur Verhandlung laden.
Öffentliche Verhandlung.

At the office

Gehaltsverhandlungen führen.
In die Verhandlung gehen.
Verhandlungsgeschick beweisen.
Ein Verhandlungsprotokoll erstellen.

Buying a car

Der Preis ist Verhandlungsbasis.
In die Preisverhandlung einsteigen.
Einen Verhandlungsspielraum haben.
Die Verhandlung abschließen.

Politics

Koalitionsverhandlungen.
Friedensverhandlungen führen.
An den Verhandlungstisch zurückkehren.
Internationale Verhandlungen.

Daily Life

Eine Verhandlung mit den Eltern.
Verhandlungen über den Abwasch.
Das steht nicht zur Verhandlung.
Kleine Verhandlungen machen.

Amorces de conversation

"Wie laufen die Verhandlungen mit dem neuen Kunden?"

"Hatten Sie schon einmal eine Gehaltsverhandlung?"

"Was ist Ihre wichtigste Taktik in einer Verhandlung?"

"Glauben Sie, dass die Verhandlungen zwischen den Parteien erfolgreich sein werden?"

"Sind Sie gut in Verhandlungen am Flohmarkt?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreiben Sie eine schwierige Verhandlung, die Sie einmal führen mussten.

Warum ist Verhandlungsgeschick in der heutigen Arbeitswelt so wichtig?

Was macht eine erfolgreiche Verhandlung aus Ihrer Sicht aus?

Sollten Kinder in der Schule lernen, wie man eine Verhandlung führt?

Wie unterscheidet sich eine Verhandlung in Ihrem Heimatland von einer in Deutschland?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, it is also the standard term for a court trial or a diplomatic discussion between countries. It can even be used for serious personal discussions.

A 'Gespräch' is a general conversation. A 'Verhandlung' is a formal discussion with the specific goal of reaching an agreement or contract.

You can, but 'Feilschen' is more common for informal price haggling. 'Verhandlung' makes it sound more professional.

You say 'in Verhandlungen stehen' or 'sich in Verhandlungen befinden'.

It stands for 'Verhandlungsbasis', meaning the price is negotiable.

Often, yes. 'Die Verhandlungen' refers to the whole process, which usually takes more than one meeting.

It is a negotiation between a labor union and an employer association about wages and working conditions.

It is pronounced like an 'f' in English. 'Fer-hand-lung'.

No, that would be 'die Handlung'.

It means 'negotiation skill'—the ability to reach a good deal through clever discussion.

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