Verb

bestimmen

Translation

to determine, to decide, to define, to appoint

Wir müssen den genauen Zeitpunkt bestimmen.

We have to determine the exact time.

Der Chef bestimmt, wer die Aufgabe bekommt.

The boss decides who gets the task.

Du bestimmst über dein eigenes Leben.

You decide about your own life.

Dieses Gerät ist für den Export bestimmt.

This device is intended for export.

((sth.)) bestimmen to determine sth. We have to determine the price.

((über+4)) bestimmen to decide on sth. The king decides on the fate of the country.

((sb.)) ((as sth.)) bestimmen to appoint sb. as sth. They appointed him as the new chairman.

((for sb./sth.)) bestimmt sein to be intended for sb./sth. The gift is intended for you.

Synonyms: festlegen, entscheiden; Antonyms: zweifeln

From the prefix 'be-' (making something) and 'Stimme' (voice). Literally 'to give a voice to,' hence to decide or determine.

Imagine having a 'Stimme' (voice) in a matter, which gives you the power to 'bestimmen' (determine) the outcome.