der Begriff
Translation
concept, term, idea, notion
Examples
Das ist ein schwieriger Begriff.
That is a difficult concept.
Ich bin im Begriff zu gehen.
I am about to go.
Grammar Patterns
the concept ((of sth.)) der Begriff ((von et3)) The concept of freedom is complex.
to be about ((to do sth.)) im Begriff sein, ((etw. zu tun)) I was just about to call you.
Similar Words
Konzept (concept), Idee (idea), Vorstellung (notion), Terminus (term)
Etymology
From the verb 'begreifen' (to grasp, understand). It combines 'be-' and 'greifen' (to grip). A 'Begriff' is something you can mentally 'grip'.
Memory Tips
Think of getting a 'grip' on an idea. The root 'greifen' is related to the English 'grip'. A 'Begriff' is a mental grip on a concept.