Veranlassen

Veranlassen is a German verb that means to cause, arrange, or prompt something to happen. It is used for situations where someone initiates an action by another person or arranges for a process to begin. The term covers both everyday and formal contexts.

The verb is transitive and can take different objects. Common patterns are jemanden zu etwas veranlassen (to induce someone to do something) and etwas veranlassen (to initiate or arrange a measure, decision, or process). It conveys the idea of exerting influence or taking steps that bring about a result.

In legal language, veranlassen often appears in phrases such as zu einer Straftat veranlassen (to prompt someone to commit a crime). In German criminal law, this concept is closely related to instigation (Anstiftung); the person who veranlasst can be liable as an instigator, depending on the applicable rules and circumstances. The exact legal implications depend on the jurisdiction and the specific statute involved.

Examples illustrate its use in different contexts: Der Vorstand veranlasste eine Prüfung der Unterlagen (the board initiated a review of the documents). Die Behörde veranlasste die Rückstellung von Geldern (the authorities initiated the earmarking or withholding of funds). Er veranlasste den Zeugen, zu schweigen (he prompted the witness to remain silent). The meaning of veranlassen is thus context-dependent, ranging from neutral administration to potential legal assessment of responsibility.