Aangeven

Aangeven is a Dutch verb formed from the prefix aan- and geven (to give). It has several related meanings depending on context: to indicate or specify something; to report or inform authorities about something; and to declare or state information on a form or document. The past participle is aangegeven, and in perfect tenses it is used with hebben (Ik heb aangegeven).

Meanings and usage

- Indicate or specify: used to point out or reveal information. For example, "Het rapport geeft aan welke risico's er zijn" means the report indicates which risks exist. Another common use is in forms or guidelines: "In het formulier kun je aangeven welke talen je spreekt" (you can indicate which languages you speak).

- Report or inform authorities: used when notifying or filing a report about something. For example, "De getuige heeft de verdachte aangegeven bij de politie" means the witness reported the suspect to the police. In this sense it is close to melden, but with a nuance of formally indicating or declaring to authorities.

- Declare or state on a form: used to declare preferences, data, or choices. For instance, "Hier kun je aangeven wat je voorkeursinstelling is" (you can indicate your preferred setting here).

Adjective use

Aangegeven can also function adjectively as "indicated" or "specified," as in "de aangegeven route" (the indicated route) or "de aangegeven informatie" (the specified information).

Grammar notes

Aangeven is a separable-prefix verb. In sentences, the particle aan can appear adjacent to the verb or at the end of the clause depending on word order, for example "Ik geef het aan" or "Het rapport geeft aan wat er mis is." The past participle remains aangegeven, as in "Ik heb het aangegeven."

Synonyms and nuance

Synonyms include melden, vertellen, en aangeven in bepaalde contexten; onderscheidende nuances bestaan vooral tussen het aangeven (informeren/indicarion) en het melden (meer formeel of officieel rapporteren).