Besetzung

Besetzung is a German noun derived from the verb besetzen, meaning to occupy, populate, or fill. The term is used in several related but distinct contexts, with nuances depending on the field.

In political and historical contexts, Besetzung refers to the occupation or control of a territory by a state or military force. It can denote the act of occupying, the period of occupation, or the administration installed by the occupying power. The related term Besatzung is often used for the occupying troops or for the personnel involved in the occupation, while Besetzung emphasizes the act or state of occupation.

In film, theatre, and television, Besetzung denotes the cast—the performers who appear in a production. It can refer to the set of actors chosen for roles, as in “die Besetzung des Films,” or to the process of casting itself, as in “eine neue Besetzung finden.” The term is commonly paired with adjectives like “Hauptbesetzung” (lead roles) or “Nebenbesetzung” (supporting cast).

In music, Besetzung describes the instrumentation or ensemble of a work. It specifies which instruments or voice parts are employed and how many performers are involved. Phrases like “eine kleine Besetzung” or “die vollständige Besetzung” are used to indicate a small ensemble or a full orchestra or choir, respectively.

Besetzung is also used in organizational or administrative language to refer to filling a position or vacancy, as in “die Besetzung der Stelle.” This covers the act of staffing a role within an organization.