begründen
Translation
to justify, to give reasons for, to establish, to found
Examples
Können Sie Ihre Antwort begründen?
Can you justify your answer?
Er begründete eine neue Firma.
He founded a new company.
Ihre Angst ist gut begründet.
Her fear is well-founded.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to justify/found sth. He must justify his decision.
((sth.)) ((with sth.)) to justify sth. with sth. She justifies her absence with an illness.
Similar Words
Synonyms: rechtfertigen (to justify), gründen (to found)
Etymology
From 'be-' prefix and 'Grund' (reason, ground, foundation). It means 'to provide a ground/reason for' or 'to lay the ground for'.
Memory Tips
To 'begründen' something, you must give the 'Grund' (reason) for it.