verb
to apply (for), to request
B1
Meaning: to apply for (e.g., documents, benefits) and to request. It’s transitive: you 'beantragen' something (einen Pass beantragen) and often with an institution 'bei' (bei der Behörde). Auxiliary: haben. Regular weak verb (beantragt). Not reflexive. Common in bureaucratic language contexts.
Examples
Ich möchte ein Visum beantragen.
I would like to apply for a visa.
Die Familie beantragte Unterstützung, nachdem das Haus durch den Sturm beschädigt worden war.
The family applied for assistance after the house had been damaged by the storm.
Er hat zusätzliche Fördermittel beantragt.
He requested additional funding.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture filling out a paper labeled 'ANTRAG' (application) with a big stamp that says 'beantragt'.
Sounds a bit like 'bean a tractor' — imagine planting a formal 'bean' request in a field (apply).
Notes
In German, 'beantragen' is used for formal applications or official requests. It is transitive and commonly used with direct objects like 'einen Antrag' or nouns for the thing requested (e.g., 'ein Visum beantragen').