besprochen

Besprochen is the past participle of the German verb besprechen, which means to discuss, talk about, or confer on a topic. The form is used in a range of grammatical constructions to indicate that a matter has been the subject of discussion.

In perfect tense with haben: Wir haben das Thema besprochen. In passive constructions with werden: Das Thema wurde besprochen. As an attributive adjective: ein besprochenes Thema; die besprochenen Punkte. The nominalized form Das Besprochene refers to content that was discussed, for example in a statement like Das Besprochene ist im Protokoll festgehalten.

Etymology and nuance: besprechen derives from be- plus sprechen, with be- creating a transitive sense that often implies addressing or discussing something with someone. The term is common in formal and semi-formal contexts, such as business meetings, academic discussions, and media reporting, where topics are systematically reviewed or decided upon.

Usage notes: Besprochen emphasizes the content or outcome of a discussion rather than the act of speaking itself. It contrast with forms like reden or sprechen, which highlight the act of talking. When used as a past participle, it agrees with the auxiliary and, in attributive position, follows the normal adjective concurrence rules (ein besprochenes Thema, die besprochenen Themen).

See also: Besprechung, Besprechungsprotokoll, Diskussion.