verständigen
Translation
to inform, to notify, to reach an agreement, to make oneself understood
Examples
Bitte verständigen Sie die Polizei.
Please inform the police.
Wir müssen uns über den Preis verständigen.
We have to reach an agreement on the price.
Ich kann mich auf Deutsch verständigen.
I can make myself understood in German.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n)) ((über+4)) to inform (sb.) (about sth.) Please inform the police about the accident.
((sich)) ((mit+3)) ((über+4)) to agree (with sb.) (on sth.) We agreed with them on the plan.
((sich)) to make oneself understood He can make himself understood in English.
Similar Words
Etymology
From 'ver-' (prefix) and 'Verstand' (understanding, reason). The core idea is 'to make someone understand'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'Verstand' (understanding). To 'verständigen' someone is to give them an understanding of a situation. When you 'sich verständigen', you come to a mutual understanding.