Kennzunehmen

Kennzunehmen is a German verb meaning "to take into account," "to consider," or "to note." It is typically used in formal or official contexts, such as in legal documents, business correspondence, or academic writing. The verb is often employed to draw attention to a particular point or factor that should be considered when making a decision or forming an opinion.

The etymology of kennenzunehmen can be traced back to the Old High German word "kenne" which means "to know" or "to recognize," and "nemen" which means "to take." Thus, literally, it means "to take to know" or "to take to recognize." This etymological origin highlights the sense of awareness and incorporation inherent in the word's meaning.

In practice, "kennenzunehmen" signifies that something is not to be overlooked. For instance, a contract might state that certain conditions are to be "kennengenommen," meaning they must be acknowledged and factored into any subsequent actions. Similarly, when discussing a complex issue, one might say that a particular aspect needs to be "kennengenommen" for a comprehensive understanding. The phrase emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and integrating specific information or circumstances into a broader context. Its usage often implies a degree of formality and a requirement for careful consideration.