unterschreiben

Unterschreiben is a German verb meaning to affix one’s signature to a document, typically as a sign of consent, authentication, or assent. The act signifies agreement with the content or authorization of a transaction. The noun form is Unterschrift, and related verbs include unterzeichnen (often used in formal or official contexts) and leisten einer Unterschrift (to provide a signature).

Etymology and usage. The term derives from unter “under” and schreiben “to write,” originally indicating writing one's name beneath a text to approve it. In everyday language, Unterschreiben refers to the act of signing; Unterzeichnen is common in formal declarations or agreements. A handwritten signature on paper is the traditional form, while electronic methods are increasingly common.

Forms and technologies. The most familiar form is eine handschriftliche Unterschrift on a document. Electronic signatures come in several levels: einfache elektronische Signaturen (simple), fortgeschrittene elektronische Signaturen (FES), and das qualifizierte elektronische Siegel bzw. die qualifizierte elektronische Signatur (QES), the strongest form under EU law. QES is issued by trusted certification service providers and can have the same legal effect as a handwritten signature in many contexts. For some official processes, specific formats or notarization may be required.

Legal context. In German law, signatures are often used to indicate agreement to contracts, consent to terms, or authorization of actions. Some transactions must follow Schriftform (written form) or notarized form under the BGB; in electronic contexts, eIDAS governs the validity of digital signatures. A signature is generally considered valid if it can be reliably attributed to the signer and shows intent to be bound by the document.

Usage and practicality. In daily practice, signatures appear on contracts, forms, and letters; digital signatures and e-signature platforms enable signing without paper. While a handwritten signature remains common on physical documents, electronic signatures are increasingly accepted in business and administration, subject to applicable form requirements and evidentiary standards.