verhören

Verhören is a German verb that denotes questioning someone, usually in a formal or official setting such as police work or judicial investigations. It implies thorough or intense questioning and is commonly used to describe interrogations of suspects or witnesses. The related noun Verhör refers to an interrogation session itself.

In usage, Verhören often carries a stronger or more coercive connotation than neutral terms like befragen or Vernehmung. Vernehmen is typically used for official but more neutral interrogations or statements, especially those of witnesses, while Verhör emphasizes the authoritative context and potential pressure involved in the questioning of a suspect.

Legal and procedural context varies by jurisdiction but generally involves safeguards. In many systems, suspects have rights during questioning, including access to legal counsel, the right to silence, and limits on coercive methods. Verhöre may be conducted by police or prosecutors and can be documented in transcripts or recordings. Inquiries involving minors or vulnerable individuals are subject to additional protections.

Synonyms and related terms include befragen (to question), ausfragen (to drill down with questions), and Vernehmung (a formal examination or statement, often of a witness). The choice of term can reflect the role of the person questioned (suspect vs. witness) and the formality or force attributed to the procedure.

Overall, verhören describes a specific, often official mode of questioning within criminal justice or investigative processes, with emphasis on intensity and authority rather than casual inquiry.