Bestehen is a versatile German verb that can mean "to exist," "to insist," or "to pass (an exam)," depending on the context. It is a regular verb in its core form but is used in different ways across various situations, making it essential for German learners.
- To exist: bestehen describes the presence or existence of something.
- To insist: Used with auf + dative, it means to insist on something.
- To pass (an exam): It is also used for successfully passing tests or exams.
Bestehen means to exist, to insist, and to pass (an exam).
Conjugation (Present Tense)
| Person | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| ich | bestehe |
| du | bestehst |
| er/sie/es | besteht |
| wir | bestehen |
| ihr | besteht |
| sie/Sie | bestehen |
- bestehen follows the regular pattern for -en verbs in the present tense.
- Root: besteh-
The root used for conjugation is 'besteh-'.
Usage and Examples
1. To Exist
Bestehen expresses the existence or presence of something—often in formal or written contexts.
- Ein Problem besteht noch.
- Die Möglichkeit besteht, dass es regnet.
'Bestehen' is used as: Ein Problem besteht. Eine Möglichkeit besteht.
2. To Insist
When used to insist on something, bestehen is followed by auf + dative.
- Sie besteht auf ihrer Meinung.
- Wir bestehen auf Pünktlichkeit.
The correct preposition is 'auf': 'bestehen auf...'
3. To Pass (an Exam)
Bestehen is used for passing exams, tests, or any assessment.
- Er hat die Prüfung bestanden.
- Ihr müsst den Test bestehen, um zu bestehen.
Yes, 'bestehen' is used for passing exams.
Conclusion
Bestehen is a multifunctional verb that can express existence, insistence, and academic success, making it highly useful in various German contexts.
- Core meanings: to exist, to insist, to pass (an exam).
- Requires auf + dative when used to insist.
- Commonly used in formal, academic, and everyday settings.