besetzen
Translation
to occupy, to fill (a position), to cast (a role), to take (a seat)
Examples
Der Feind besetzte die Stadt.
The enemy occupied the city.
Ist dieser Platz noch besetzt?
Is this seat still taken?
Die Firma muss die Stelle neu besetzen.
The company has to fill the position anew.
Die Hauptrolle ist gut besetzt.
The main role is well cast.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to occupy sth. The enemy occupied the city.
((sth.)) ((with sb.)) to fill sth. (a position) with sb. They must fill the position with an expert.
Similar Words
Etymology
From the prefix `be-` and `setzen` (to set, to place). Literally 'to set upon' something. This leads to meanings like occupying a place, filling a position, or placing an actor in a role.
Memory Tips
Think of `setzen` (to set/place). `besetzen` is to 'set' something onto a place: soldiers onto a city (occupy), a person onto a chair (take a seat), or an actor into a role (cast).