befragen
Translation
to question, to consult, to survey
Examples
Die Polizei befragt den Zeugen.
The police are questioning the witness.
Wir müssen einen Experten befragen.
We have to consult an expert.
Die Studenten wurden zu dem Thema befragt.
The students were surveyed on the topic.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) to question (sb.) The police are questioning the witness.
((sb.)) ((about sth.)) to question (sb.) about (sth.) He questioned her about her plans.
Similar Words
Synonyms: interviewen (to interview), ausfragen (to interrogate); Antonym: antworten (to answer)
Etymology
From the prefix 'be-' + 'fragen' (to ask). The 'be-' prefix makes the verb transitive and often implies a more thorough or official action than the base verb.
Memory Tips
Think of 'befragen' as a more formal or intense version of 'fragen' (to ask). It's like 'to bestow questions upon someone'.