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A2 verb #1,500 よく出る 11分で読める

betrachten

to contemplate; to look thoughtfully for a long time at something spiritual

上位1,500

At the A1 level, you usually learn simple verbs like 'sehen' (to see) or 'schauen' (to look). 'Betrachten' might appear in very specific contexts, like looking at a picture in a textbook. At this stage, just remember that 'betrachten' is a more 'intense' version of looking. If you see a picture of someone looking at a painting in a museum, that is 'betrachten.' You don't need to use it in your own speaking yet, but recognizing it as 'looking closely' is helpful. It is a regular verb, so it follows the standard patterns: ich betrachte, du betrachtest, er betrachtet. The most important thing for A1 is to know it's about eyes and looking.

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At A2, you start to use 'betrachten' to describe more deliberate actions. You might use it when talking about visiting a museum or looking at a beautiful landscape. This is also where you might encounter the reflexive form 'sich betrachten' (to look at oneself) in the context of clothes or appearance. You should begin to distinguish it from 'sehen.' For example, 'Ich sehe den Baum' (I see the tree) vs. 'Ich betrachte den Baum' (I am looking at the tree thoughtfully). You also learn that it is an inseparable verb with the prefix 'be-', so the past tense is 'hat betrachtet.'

At the B1 level, 'betrachten' becomes much more useful because you start expressing opinions. The construction 'etwas als ... betrachten' (to view something as ...) is a key tool for B1 students. Instead of just saying 'Ich finde das gut,' you can say 'Ich betrachte das als einen Vorteil' (I view that as an advantage). This makes your German sound more professional and nuanced. You also use it more in written descriptions of images (Bildbeschreibung), which is a common task in B1 exams. You describe not just what is in the picture, but how the viewer should 'view' or 'interpret' it.

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At B2, you are expected to use 'betrachten' in academic and professional contexts. You use it to analyze problems from different perspectives: 'Wenn man es von einem anderen Standpunkt aus betrachtet...' (If you look at it from another point of view...). This level requires you to understand the nuance between 'betrachten' and 'beobachten' (observing a process). You will also encounter the passive voice frequently in texts: 'Diese Entwicklung wird als kritisch betrachtet' (This development is viewed as critical). Your vocabulary should now include collocations like 'nüchtern betrachten' (to view soberly/objectively).

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At C1, 'betrachten' is a staple of sophisticated discourse. You use it to discuss abstract concepts, philosophical theories, and complex social issues. You understand the subtle difference between 'betrachten' and 'reflektieren' or 'erwägen.' You can use it to describe the 'gaze' in literature or film theory (der männliche Blick / die Betrachtungsweise). You are comfortable using it in the subjunctive or with complex modal constructions. It is no longer just about 'looking'; it is about the entire intellectual framework through which one perceives reality. You might also use the noun form 'Betrachtung' (contemplation/observation) in your writing.

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At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'betrachten' in all its poetic and technical glory. You can appreciate its use in classical German literature (like Goethe or Schiller) where it often has a spiritual or quasi-religious connotation of 'beholding' the divine in nature. You can use it in highly specialized fields, such as legal theory or advanced aesthetics, with perfect precision. You are also aware of rare idioms and can play with the word's nuances in creative writing. For a C2 learner, 'betrachten' is not just a verb, but a concept that links the human mind to the external world through the act of perception.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

betrachten 30秒で

Betrachten means to look at something with focus, intent, and often for a long duration, distinguishing it from simple seeing or glancing.
It is frequently used in the 'als' construction to mean 'to view or consider something as,' which is essential for expressing opinions.
The verb is inseparable (prefix 'be-') and regular, making it a reliable choice for formal writing and academic descriptions of objects.
It carries a sophisticated, intellectual, or aesthetic tone, making it perfect for art, science, and philosophical discussions in German.

The German verb betrachten is a multifaceted gem in the German language, primarily sitting at the intersection of physical sight and intellectual reflection. While a beginner might simply translate it as 'to look at,' this does a disservice to the word's inherent depth. At its core, betrachten implies a focused, prolonged, and often analytical way of looking. It is not the fleeting glance of blicken or the passive reception of sehen. Instead, it is an active engagement with an object, a person, or a concept. When you betrachten something, you are giving it your full attention, often with the intent to understand its essence, its beauty, or its implications. This makes it the preferred verb for art appreciation, scientific observation, and philosophical inquiry. In a spiritual context, it elevates the act of looking to a form of meditation or contemplation, where the observer seeks a deeper connection with the subject matter.

The Physical Dimension: In its most literal sense, betrachten describes the act of looking at a physical object for a significant duration. You would use it when standing in front of a painting in the Alte Pinakothek, carefully noting the brushstrokes and color transitions. It suggests a stillness of the body and a sharpness of the mind.
The Analytical Dimension: Beyond the physical, betrachten is frequently used to mean 'to consider' or 'to view' a situation or problem. In this context, it is often paired with the preposition als (as). For example, one might 'view a challenge as an opportunity' (eine Herausforderung als Chance betrachten). This usage is vital in academic and professional German, where objective analysis is paramount.

Wir müssen die Situation objektiv betrachten, um eine Lösung zu finden.

Translation: We must view the situation objectively to find a solution.

The prefix be- in German often transforms an intransitive action into a transitive one that is directed intensely at an object. While trachten (an archaic or poetic word) means to strive or seek, betrachten literally means to 'bestow' your sight upon something. This linguistic structure emphasizes the intentionality behind the action. It is not something that happens to you; it is something you do with purpose. Whether you are a scientist betrachten-ing a specimen under a microscope or a lover betrachten-ing the face of their partner, there is a quality of reverence and scrutiny involved that other verbs lack.

Sie betrachtete stundenlang den Sternenhimmel.

Translation: She contemplated the starry sky for hours.

Social Contexts: In social settings, betrachten can sometimes carry a nuance of distance. If someone betrachtet you from across the room, they are observing you, perhaps judging or admiring, but not necessarily interacting. It is the gaze of the observer rather than the participant.

Er betrachtet sich gerne im Spiegel.

Translation: He likes to look at himself in the mirror (implies vanity or self-study).

Using betrachten correctly requires understanding its grammatical environment. It is a weak (regular) verb, which makes its conjugation straightforward, but its syntactic patterns—especially the use of als—are where learners often trip up. Because it is a transitive verb, it always takes a direct object in the accusative case. You are always betrachten-ing *something* or *someone*.

The 'Als' Construction: This is perhaps the most common way to use the verb in modern German. The pattern is: [Subject] + [betrachten] + [Object (Acc)] + als + [Attribute (Nom/Acc)]. Note that the noun following als usually matches the case of the object it refers to. Example: 'Ich betrachte ihn als meinen Freund' (I view him as my friend).

Viele Menschen betrachten den Klimawandel als die größte Bedrohung unserer Zeit.

Translation: Many people view climate change as the greatest threat of our time.

When using betrachten to describe physical observation, adverbs are your best friends. Because the verb implies a duration, you will often see it paired with words like lange (long), genau (exactly/carefully), schweigend (silently), or nachdenklich (thoughtfully). These adverbs color the quality of the gaze. For instance, 'Er betrachtete das Foto lange' suggests a nostalgic or perhaps painful memory, whereas 'Er betrachtete das Foto genau' suggests he is looking for a specific detail or a clue.

Der Detektiv betrachtete die Fußspuren im Schlamm sehr genau.

Translation: The detective examined the footprints in the mud very closely.

Reflexive Usage: When used reflexively (sich betrachten), it often refers to looking at oneself in a mirror or, metaphorically, evaluating one's own position or character. 'Man muss sich selbst kritisch betrachten' (One must view oneself critically) is a common sentiment in German self-improvement and philosophical discourse.

In more complex sentence structures, betrachten can introduce a subordinate clause, though this is less common than the 'als' construction. Usually, it's 'betrachten, wie...' (to observe how...). For example: 'Ich betrachtete, wie die Sonne langsam hinter den Bergen verschwand' (I watched how the sun slowly disappeared behind the mountains). Here, the focus is on the process being observed. This usage overlaps slightly with beobachten, but betrachten retains a more aesthetic or contemplative tone.

Wenn man das Problem von dieser Seite betrachtet, sieht es ganz anders aus.

Translation: If you look at the problem from this side, it looks completely different.

Passive Voice: In formal writing, you will often find the passive voice: 'Das Werk kann als Meilenstein betrachtet werden' (The work can be viewed as a milestone). This shifts the focus from the observer to the object being evaluated, which is a hallmark of academic German.

If you are wandering through a German city, you might not hear betrachten in a casual conversation about what's for dinner. However, step into a museum, a university lecture hall, or turn on a serious news program, and the word becomes ubiquitous. It is a 'prestige' verb that signals a level of intellectual engagement. In the Feuilleton (the arts and culture section) of major newspapers like the Süddeutsche Zeitung or Die Zeit, critics will betrachten the latest theatrical performances or political shifts with a keen eye.

In the Arts: Audio guides in museums are filled with this word. 'Betrachten Sie nun das Porträt auf der rechten Seite' (Now look at the portrait on the right). It invites the listener to stop and really see the art, rather than just walking past it. It is the language of appreciation.

Der Kunstkritiker betrachtete das abstrakte Gemälde mit einer Mischung aus Skepsis und Bewunderung.

Translation: The art critic viewed the abstract painting with a mixture of skepticism and admiration.

In the world of science and research, betrachten is used to describe the examination of data or phenomena. A scientist doesn't just 'look' at results; they betrachten them within a specific theoretical framework. This is why you will often hear it in phrases like 'unter diesem Aspekt betrachten' (to view under this aspect/from this perspective). It suggests that the act of looking is filtered through a lens of expertise.

Wir müssen dieses Phänomen im historischen Kontext betrachten.

Translation: We must view this phenomenon in its historical context.

In Literature and Philosophy: German literature is famous for its 'Innerlichkeit' (inwardness). Characters often spend pages betrachten-ing the landscape or their own souls. It is a word of the 'Bildungsbürgertum' (the educated middle class), conveying a sense of refined observation and deep thought.

Goethe betrachtete die Natur als ein offenes Geheimnis.

Translation: Goethe viewed nature as an open secret.

Finally, you will hear it in legal and administrative contexts. A judge will betrachten the evidence (die Beweise betrachten), or an authority will betrachten an application as completed (einen Antrag als erledigt betrachten). In these cases, the word carries the weight of a formal decision or a final judgment. It is not just an opinion; it is a formal 'viewing' that has consequences.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with betrachten is using it where a simpler verb like sehen (to see) or gucken (to look/peek) would be more appropriate. If you say, 'Ich betrachte den Fernseher,' it sounds like you are analyzing the television set as an object of industrial design, rather than watching a show. For watching TV, always use fernsehen or schauen.

Confusion with 'Beobachten': While both mean 'to observe,' beobachten is usually for things that are moving or changing (like animals, people, or weather), whereas betrachten is for static objects or abstract concepts. You beobachten a bird flying, but you betrachten a still life painting of a bird.

Falsch: Ich betrachte den Film.
Richtig: Ich sehe mir den Film an.

Explanation: 'Betrachten' is too static for a moving film.

Another common error is the omission of als in the 'view as' construction. English speakers often want to say 'Ich betrachte ihn mein Freund,' following the English structure 'I consider him my friend.' In German, the als is mandatory. Without it, the sentence is grammatically incomplete and confusing. Remember: betrachten + Akkusativ + als + Akkusativ/Nominativ.

Falsch: Wir betrachten das ein Problem.
Richtig: Wir betrachten das als ein Problem.

Explanation: The 'als' is the bridge that connects the object to its classification.

Preposition Pitfalls: Learners sometimes try to use auf (at) with betrachten because of the English 'look at.' However, betrachten is a direct transitive verb. You do not look *at* something; you just 'look something.' No preposition is needed between the verb and its object.

Lastly, be careful with the register. Using betrachten in a very casual setting, like looking at a meme on a phone, can sound ironically formal or even slightly arrogant. If you're just showing a friend a funny picture, say 'Guck mal!' or 'Schau dir das mal an!' rather than 'Betrachte dieses Bild.' Use betrachten when the object of your gaze deserves respect or serious thought.

German is famous for having a specific verb for every possible nuance of 'looking.' To master betrachten, you must know its neighbors. The most common alternatives are ansehen, anschauen, beobachten, and mustern. Each carries a different 'flavor' of visual attention.

Betrachten vs. Ansehen/Anschauen: Ansehen and anschauen are the everyday workhorses. They are neutral and can be used for everything from looking at a car to watching a movie. Betrachten is more intense and intellectual. You ansehen a photo to see who is in it; you betrachten a photo to understand the emotion it conveys.
Betrachten vs. Beobachten: As mentioned, beobachten implies movement or a process over time. It is often used for surveillance or scientific monitoring. Betrachten is more about the state of the object. You beobachten a patient's symptoms, but you betrachten the X-ray image.
Betrachten vs. Mustern: Mustern is a very specific type of betrachten. It means to 'size someone up' or to look at someone/something very critically from top to bottom, often in a judgmental or suspicious way. If a bouncer mustert you at a club, they are checking if you fit the dress code.

Sie musterte ihn von Kopf bis Fuß, bevor sie antwortete.

Translation: She sized him up from head to toe before she answered.

In the abstract sense of 'considering,' synonyms include erwägen (to weigh/consider options), beurteilen (to judge/assess), and reflektieren (to reflect upon). Betrachten is the most visual of these; it implies you are 'looking' at the idea in your mind's eye. Erwägen is more about making a decision, while beurteilen is about forming a final opinion.

Wir müssen alle Optionen erwägen, aber lass uns zuerst die Fakten betrachten.

Translation: We must consider all options, but let's first look at the facts.

Finally, for the 'spiritual' or 'deeply thoughtful' aspect, kontemplieren (to contemplate) is a direct cognate but is much rarer and more formal than betrachten. Betrachten is the perfect middle ground—sophisticated enough for a sermon or a poem, but common enough to be used in a high school essay.

How Formal Is It?

フォーマル

ニュートラル

カジュアル

Child friendly

スラング

豆知識

The adjective 'beträchtlich' (considerable) comes from this verb. It originally meant 'something worth looking at/considering,' which evolved into 'something large enough to be noticed.'

発音ガイド

UK /bəˈtʁaxtn̩/

US /bəˈtɹɑxtn̩/

The stress is on the second syllable: be-TRACH-ten.

韻が合う語

achten pachten schlachten verachten gutachten übernachten beobachten (near rhyme) frachten

よくある間違い

Stressing the first syllable (BE-trachten).
Pronouncing the 'ch' like 'sh' (betrashten).
Pronouncing the 'be-' like 'bee'.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, especially in descriptions.

ライティング 4/5

Requires correct use of 'als' and understanding of register.

スピーキング 3/5

Pronunciation of 'ch' can be tricky, and it's easy to over-use it in casual speech.

リスニング 2/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to hear in formal contexts.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

sehen schauen als genau Bild

次に学ぶ

beobachten erwägen beurteilen Perspektive Zusammenhang

上級

kontemplieren perzipieren evaluieren analysieren

知っておくべき文法

Inseparable Prefixes

The prefix 'be-' is never separated from the verb. (Ich betrachte, NOT Ich trachte be).

Transitive Verbs

Betrachten always takes an accusative object. (Ich betrachte DEN [masc. acc.] Baum).

The 'als' Comparison

Nouns after 'als' usually match the case of the noun they refer to. (Ich betrachte IHN [acc] als MEINEN FREUND [acc]).

Weak Verb Conjugation

Follows the regular pattern: -e, -st, -t, -en, -t, -en.

Passive Voice with Modal Verbs

Often used in academic writing: 'Es muss betrachtet werden'.

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レベル別の例文

Ich betrachte das Bild.

I am looking at the picture.

Simple present tense, transitive verb.

Er betrachtet die Blumen im Garten.

He is looking at the flowers in the garden.

3rd person singular ending -tet.

Betrachtest du das Foto?

Are you looking at the photo?

Interrogative sentence structure.

Wir betrachten die Sterne.

We are looking at the stars.

Plural subject with 'wir'.

Sie betrachtet ihre neue Tasche.

She is looking at her new bag.

Possessive pronoun 'ihre' in accusative.

Das Kind betrachtet den Käfer.

The child is looking at the beetle.

Subject 'Das Kind' is neutral.

Ich betrachte die Karte.

I am looking at the map.

Direct object 'die Karte' is feminine.

Ihr betrachtet das Haus.

You (plural) are looking at the house.

2nd person plural ending -tet.

Sie betrachtet sich im Spiegel.

She is looking at herself in the mirror.

Reflexive use with 'sich'.

Wir haben das Denkmal lange betrachtet.

We looked at the monument for a long time.

Perfect tense with 'haben' and 'betrachtet'.

Er betrachtet die Speisekarte genau.

He is looking at the menu carefully.

Adverb 'genau' modifies the verb.

Betrachten Sie bitte dieses Beispiel.

Please look at this example.

Imperative form (formal).

Ich betrachte die Landschaft aus dem Fenster.

I am looking at the landscape from the window.

Prepositional phrase 'aus dem Fenster'.

Sie betrachtete die alten Briefe mit Wehmut.

She looked at the old letters with nostalgia.

Präteritum (simple past) tense.

Wir betrachten den Plan für die Reise.

We are looking at the plan for the trip.

Direct object 'den Plan' is masculine.

Betrachtest du das als Hobby?

Do you view that as a hobby?

Introduction of 'als' for 'view as'.

Ich betrachte ihn als meinen besten Freund.

I view him as my best friend.

The 'als' construction with accusative.

Man muss die Situation von beiden Seiten betrachten.

One must look at the situation from both sides.

Modal verb 'muss' with infinitive at the end.

Sie betrachtet ihre Arbeit als eine große Herausforderung.

She views her work as a great challenge.

Feminine noun 'Herausforderung' after 'als'.

Wir betrachten diesen Vorschlag als sehr sinnvoll.

We view this proposal as very sensible.

Adjective 'sinnvoll' used as a complement.

Er betrachtet das Leben als ein Abenteuer.

He views life as an adventure.

Neutral noun 'Abenteuer' after 'als'.

Betrachten wir nun die Grafik auf Seite fünf.

Let's now look at the graph on page five.

Hortative use (let's...) with 'wir'.

Ich betrachte es als meine Pflicht, dir zu helfen.

I view it as my duty to help you.

Dummy object 'es' referring to the infinitive clause.

Sie betrachtete die Kunstwerke in der Galerie schweigend.

She viewed the artworks in the gallery silently.

Adverbial participle 'schweigend'.

Diese Maßnahme wird allgemein als Erfolg betrachtet.

This measure is generally viewed as a success.

Passive voice: 'wird ... betrachtet'.

Wenn man die Kosten betrachtet, ist das Projekt zu teuer.

If you look at the costs, the project is too expensive.

Conditional clause with 'wenn'.

Er betrachtet die Welt durch eine rosarote Brille.

He views the world through rose-colored glasses.

Idiomatic expression with 'durch'.

Wir müssen die langfristigen Folgen dieser Entscheidung betrachten.

We must consider the long-term consequences of this decision.

Genitive attribute 'dieser Entscheidung'.

Sie betrachtet die Religion als Privatsache.

She views religion as a private matter.

Abstract noun 'Privatsache'.

Man kann dieses Problem unter verschiedenen Aspekten betrachten.

One can view this problem from various aspects.

Prepositional phrase 'unter ... Aspekten'.

Der Forscher betrachtete die Zellen unter dem Mikroskop.

The researcher viewed the cells under the microscope.

Technical/Scientific context.

Ich betrachte die Angelegenheit als erledigt.

I view the matter as settled/finished.

Formal/Legalistic phrase.

In der Philosophie wird der Mensch oft als vernunftbegabtes Wesen betrachtet.

In philosophy, humans are often viewed as beings endowed with reason.

Complex passive construction in academic register.

Betrachtet man die Geschichte, erkennt man wiederkehrende Muster.

If one looks at history, one recognizes recurring patterns.

Participial-like conditional clause (omitting 'wenn').

Sie betrachtete die Vergänglichkeit des Lebens mit stoischer Ruhe.

She contemplated the transience of life with stoic calm.

High-level vocabulary: 'Vergänglichkeit', 'stoisch'.

Dieses Kunstwerk lässt sich aus mehreren Perspektiven betrachten.

This artwork can be viewed from several perspectives.

Reflexive 'lässt sich' as a passive substitute.

Er betrachtet die technologische Entwicklung mit einer gewissen Skepsis.

He views technological development with a certain skepticism.

Nuanced expression of attitude.

Wir müssen das Phänomen ganzheitlich betrachten.

We must view the phenomenon holistically.

Adverb 'ganzheitlich' (holistic).

Die Autorin betrachtet die gesellschaftlichen Umbrüche ihrer Zeit.

The author examines the social upheavals of her time.

Literary/Analytical context.

Ich betrachte es als ein Privileg, hier sprechen zu dürfen.

I view it as a privilege to be allowed to speak here.

Formal introductory phrase for a speech.

Die ontologische Differenz lässt sich nur durch tiefgreifende Betrachtung erfassen.

The ontological difference can only be grasped through profound contemplation.

Noun form 'Betrachtung' in a highly academic sentence.

Man betrachte nur die filigrane Struktur dieses spätgotischen Altars.

Just look at the delicate structure of this late Gothic altar.

Jussive subjunctive (Konjunktiv I) used as a formal imperative.

In seinem Spätwerk betrachtete der Dichter die Natur als Spiegel der Seele.

In his late work, the poet viewed nature as a mirror of the soul.

Metaphorical/Literary usage.

Die Angelegenheit muss unter dem Aspekt der Verhältnismäßigkeit betrachtet werden.

The matter must be viewed under the aspect of proportionality.

Legal terminology ('Verhältnismäßigkeit').

Er betrachtete sein Scheitern als notwendigen Schritt zur Selbsterkenntnis.

He viewed his failure as a necessary step toward self-knowledge.

Philosophical reflection on personal growth.

Betrachtet man die Faktenlage nüchtern, bleibt kein Raum für Spekulationen.

If one views the facts soberly, no room remains for speculation.

Advanced conditional structure.

Sie betrachtete die Szenerie, als ob sie einem Traum entsprungen wäre.

She viewed the scenery as if it had sprung from a dream.

Comparison with 'als ob' and Konjunktiv II.

Die Weltgeschichte ist als ein Fortschreiten im Bewusstsein der Freiheit zu betrachten.

World history is to be viewed as a progression in the consciousness of freedom.

Gerundive-like 'sein + zu + Infinitiv' construction.

よく使う組み合わせ

genau betrachten

als Erfolg betrachten

kritisch betrachten

nüchtern betrachten

aus der Ferne betrachten

unter diesem Aspekt betrachten

sich im Spiegel betrachten

eingehend betrachten

als Bedrohung betrachten

objektiv betrachten

よく使うフレーズ

Alles in allem betrachtet...

Vom Standpunkt der Logik betrachtet...

Etwas als erledigt betrachten

Sich als Teil von etwas betrachten

Genauer betrachtet...

Etwas als selbstverständlich betrachten

Aus heutiger Sicht betrachtet...

Etwas mit Sorge betrachten

Etwas als Ehre betrachten

Etwas aus einem anderen Blickwinkel betrachten

よく混同される語

betrachten vs beobachten

Beobachten is for moving things/processes; betrachten is for static things/concepts.

betrachten vs ansehen

Ansehen is neutral and common; betrachten is more intense and analytical.

betrachten vs überlegen

Überlegen is 'to think about/ponder' (internal); betrachten is 'to look at/view' (visual/conceptual).

慣用句と表現

"Etwas durch die rosarote Brille betrachten"

To see something in an overly optimistic or naive way.

Am Anfang einer Beziehung betrachtet man alles durch die rosarote Brille.

informal

"Den Tatsachen ins Auge blicken (related)"

To face the facts (often used when 'betrachten' is too passive).

Wir müssen den Tatsachen ins Auge blicken.

neutral

"Etwas mit Argusaugen betrachten"

To watch something very closely and suspiciously (like the hundred-eyed giant Argus).

Die Opposition betrachtet die Reform mit Argusaugen.

literary

"Sich im Glanz von etwas betrachten"

To view oneself in the glory of something (often used for vanity).

Er betrachtete sich im Glanz seines Erfolges.

literary

"Etwas als ein notwendiges Übel betrachten"

To view something as a necessary evil.

Viele betrachten Steuern als ein notwendiges Übel.

neutral

"Etwas unter die Lupe nehmen (related)"

To examine something very closely (metaphorically 'under the magnifying glass').

Die Experten nehmen den Vertrag unter die Lupe.

neutral

"Sich als Nabel der Welt betrachten"

To view oneself as the center of the world (arrogance).

Er betrachtet sich wohl als Nabel der Welt.

informal

"Etwas als ein zweischneidiges Schwert betrachten"

To view something as a double-edged sword.

Ich betrachte diese neue Technologie als ein zweischneidiges Schwert.

neutral

"Etwas mit anderen Augen betrachten"

To see something in a new light or from a different perspective.

Nach der Reise betrachtete er seine Heimat mit anderen Augen.

neutral

"Etwas als ein Buch mit sieben Siegeln betrachten (related)"

To view something as a complete mystery.

Mathematik war für ihn immer ein Buch mit sieben Siegeln.

neutral

間違えやすい

betrachten vs beobachten

Both mean 'to observe'.

Beobachten implies watching a sequence of events or a behavior over time. Betrachten is more about the visual qualities or the status of an object.

Ich beobachte den Vogel beim Nestbau, aber ich betrachte seine schönen Federn.

betrachten vs sehen

Both involve the eyes.

Sehen is the basic ability to perceive light. Betrachten is the conscious, focused application of that ability.

Ich sehe den Berg, aber ich betrachte seine Gipfel ganz genau.

betrachten vs gucken

Both mean 'to look'.

Gucken is very informal and often implies a quick or casual look. Betrachten is formal and implies a long, serious look.

Guck mal da! vs. Betrachten Sie dieses historische Dokument.

betrachten vs erwägen

Both can mean 'to consider'.

Erwägen is purely mental and usually involves choosing between options. Betrachten is more about how you perceive or categorize something.

Ich erwäge zu kündigen, aber ich betrachte meinen Chef trotzdem als guten Menschen.

betrachten vs mustern

Both involve looking closely.

Mustern is specifically about checking someone or something for flaws or qualities, often with a judgmental tone.

Der Polizist musterte meinen Ausweis, während ich die Umgebung betrachtete.

文型パターン

Ich betrachte [Akkusativ-Objekt].

Ich betrachte das Bild.

Er/Sie betrachtet sich im [Dativ-Ort].

Sie betrachtet sich im Spiegel.

Ich betrachte [Akk] als [Akk/Nom].

Ich betrachte ihn als einen Freund.

Wir betrachten [Akk] genau.

Wir betrachten den Plan genau.

Etwas wird als [Nom] betrachtet.

Das wird als Fehler betrachtet.

Wenn man [Akk] betrachtet, ...

Wenn man die Kosten betrachtet, ist es teuer.

[Akk] unter dem Aspekt [Genitiv] betrachten.

Wir betrachten das Problem unter dem Aspekt der Sicherheit.

Man betrachte [Akk]...

Man betrachte nur die Folgen dieser Tat.

語族

名詞

動詞

形容詞

使い方

frequency

High in written and formal spoken German; low in casual slang.

よくある間違い

Ich betrachte den Film. → Ich sehe mir den Film an.
'Betrachten' is for static objects. A film is a moving process.
Ich betrachte ihn mein Freund. → Ich betrachte ihn als meinen Freund.
You must use 'als' to connect the object to the role/category.
Ich habe begetrachtet. → Ich habe betrachtet.
Inseparable verbs with 'be-' do not take the 'ge-' prefix in the past participle.
Ich betrachte auf das Bild. → Ich betrachte das Bild.
'Betrachten' is a direct transitive verb and does not need a preposition like 'auf'.
Betrachten Sie mal! → Schauen Sie mal!
In casual 'Look at this!' situations, 'betrachten' is too formal and heavy.

ヒント

The 'Be-' Rule

Remember that verbs starting with 'be-' are always inseparable. This means the 'ge-' in the past participle is omitted. It's 'betrachtet', not 'begetrachtet'.

Museum Verb

If you are in an art gallery, 'betrachten' is your best friend. It shows you are truly appreciating the art, not just passing by.

Opinion Power

Use 'Ich betrachte das als...' to sound more sophisticated than 'Ich finde...'. It signals that your opinion is based on careful observation.

The Soft 'e'

The first 'e' in 'betrachten' is very short (a schwa). Don't say 'bee-trachten'; say 'buh-trachten'.

Avoid Repetition

If you've already used 'ansehen', switch to 'betrachten' to add variety and a sense of depth to your writing.

Static vs. Dynamic

Only use 'betrachten' for things that stay still long enough for you to analyze them. For a car race, use 'beobachten' or 'zusehen'.

Rose-Colored Glasses

The idiom 'durch die rosarote Brille betrachten' is very common. Use it to describe someone who is being too optimistic.

Scientific Gaze

In lab reports, use 'betrachten' to describe the examination of specimens under a microscope.

Mirror Work

'Sich im Spiegel betrachten' is the standard way to say you are looking at your reflection.

Objectivity

Pair 'betrachten' with 'objektiv' or 'nüchtern' to emphasize that you are being fair and unbiased.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a 'Tractor' (trachten) moving slowly across a field. If you 'be-' (bestow) your eyes on it for a long time, you are 'betrachten'-ing it. Slow, steady, and focused.

視覚的連想

Imagine a person in a museum standing perfectly still in front of a giant painting of a 'B' (for 'be-'). They are not just seeing it; they are 'betrachten'-ing its every curve.

Word Web

Auge Kunst Analyse Spiegel Perspektive Denken Museum Fokus

チャレンジ

Try to spend 2 minutes today 'betrachten'-ing a common object in your room. Then write three sentences in German describing it using 'Ich betrachte...' and 'Ich betrachte es als...'

語源

From Middle High German 'betrachten', which meant 'to think about' or 'to strive for'. It is a combination of the prefix 'be-' and the verb 'trachten'.

元の意味： Originally, it was more about the mental process of striving or planning. Over time, it shifted towards the visual act of looking as a means of thinking.

Germanic, related to the English word 'track' (in the sense of following a path or striving).

文化的な背景

No specific sensitivities, but using it for people ('jemanden betrachten') can sound objectifying if not done with care (e.g., in a medical or artistic context).

English speakers often use 'consider' or 'look at.' 'Betrachten' is more formal than 'look at' but more visual than 'consider.'

Caspar David Friedrich's paintings (like 'Wanderer above the Sea of Fog') are the ultimate examples of 'Betrachtung'. Goethe's 'Italienische Reise' is full of detailed 'Betrachtungen' of architecture and nature. The TV show 'Titel, Thesen, Temperamente' often uses this verb to introduce cultural critiques.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Art Museum

Das Gemälde betrachten
Die Komposition betrachten
Lange vor einem Werk verweilen und es betrachten
Die Details genau betrachten

Business Meeting

Die Zahlen betrachten
Das Risiko als gering betrachten
Die Konkurrenz genau betrachten
Den Markt als Ganzes betrachten

Philosophy/Religion

Das Leben als Geschenk betrachten
Die Schöpfung betrachten
Sich selbst kritisch betrachten
Die Welt als Wille und Vorstellung betrachten

Science/Research

Die Probe betrachten
Das Phänomen unter kontrollierten Bedingungen betrachten
Die Datenlage nüchtern betrachten
Einen Sonderfall betrachten

Daily Life (Formal)

Sich im Spiegel betrachten
Die Speisekarte betrachten
Die Umgebung betrachten
Ein Problem als gelöst betrachten

会話のきっかけ

"Wie betrachtest du die aktuelle politische Lage in deinem Land?"

"Betrachtest du dich eher als Optimist oder als Pessimist?"

"Wenn du ein Kunstwerk betrachtest, worauf achtest du zuerst?"

"Betrachtest du soziale Medien als Vorteil oder als Nachteil für die Gesellschaft?"

"Hast du dich heute schon einmal bewusst im Spiegel betrachtet?"

日記のテーマ

Beschreibe einen Moment, in dem du die Natur ganz in Ruhe betrachtet hast. Was hast du gefühlt?

Betrachte dein letztes Jahr. Was betrachtest du als deinen größten Erfolg und warum?

Wie betrachtest du die Rolle der Technologie in deinem täglichen Leben? Ist sie ein Werkzeug oder eine Last?

Wähle ein Objekt in deinem Zimmer und betrachte es für fünf Minuten. Beschreibe jedes Detail.

Betrachte eine schwierige Entscheidung, die du treffen musstest. Wie betrachtest du sie heute?

よくある質問

10 問

No, 'betrachten' is too static. For movies, use 'ansehen', 'anschauen', or 'gucken'. You would only 'betrachten' a single frame of a movie if you were analyzing its composition.

'Ansehen' is the general word for 'to look at'. 'Betrachten' is more formal and implies a deeper, more analytical or aesthetic level of attention. You 'ansehen' a menu to pick food, but you 'betrachten' a painting to feel its emotion.

Not always, but it is certainly more formal than 'schauen' or 'gucken'. You can use it in a neutral way (e.g., 'sich im Spiegel betrachten'), but it always sounds more 'serious' than other verbs.

No, 'betrachten' is a transitive verb and takes a direct accusative object. You do not say 'betrachten an' or 'betrachten auf'. Just 'etwas betrachten'.

You must use 'als': 'Ich betrachte ihn als einen Freund.' Without 'als', the sentence is incorrect.

No, the prefix 'be-' is inseparable. It stays with the verb in all forms: 'ich betrachte', 'ich betrachtete', 'ich habe betrachtet'.

'Betrachtung' is the noun form, meaning 'observation', 'contemplation', or 'consideration'. It is often used in titles of essays or philosophical works.

Yes, but it often implies looking at them as an object of study or admiration. 'Er betrachtete sie' sounds like he is looking at her beauty or her expression, rather than just 'seeing' her.

It means to look at something 'soberly' or 'objectively', without being influenced by emotions or bias. It is a very common phrase in business and politics.

Yes, very frequently. Scientists 'betrachten' samples, data, and phenomena to find patterns and draw conclusions.

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