bewusst

Bewusst is a German word that functions as an adjective and an adverb, closely related to the noun Bewusstsein (consciousness). As an adjective, bewusst describes states or qualities of awareness or intentionality, as in eine bewusste Entscheidung (a deliberate decision) or bewusste Wahrnehmung (conscious perception). As an adverb, it indicates that an action is performed knowingly or deliberately, for example Sie handelt bewusst (She acts consciously/knowingly). The expression sich etwas bewusst machen means to become aware of something, and man ist sich einer Sache bewusst means one is conscious of it.

In everyday use, bewusst often contrasts with automatic or unconscious behavior, highlighting intentional or reflective aspects of actions. It also appears in compound terms that express forms of awareness or responsibility, such as Umweltbewusstsein (environmental consciousness), Gesundheitsbewusstsein (health awareness), or Konsumbewusstsein (consumer awareness). The related noun Bewusstsein denotes consciousness or awareness as a mental capacity, and philosophical or psychological contexts discuss its nature and scope.

Etymology and usage notes: bewusst is historically linked to Bewusstsein and the sense of knowledge or awareness. The prefix be- in German commonly forms adjectives and nouns that express relatedness or possession. In modern German, bewusst retains the dual sense of being aware and of acting with intention.

Grammar: As with many German adjectives, bewusst takes endings according to gender, case, and article: eine bewusste Entscheidung, der bewusste Versuch, bewusst zu handeln. English translations typically render bewusst as conscious, aware, deliberate, or knowingly.