verb
to recognize, to realize
B1
erkennen: verb meaning 'to recognize' or 'to realize' (to become aware). It is regular (erkannt), uses auxiliary haben in perfect tense. Common construction: erkennen + an + D (e.g., 'an seiner Stimme erkennen'). Not reflexive; weak/regular conjugation with predictable participle.
Examples
Der Richter erkannte die Beweise an, nachdem der Sachverständige seine Ergebnisse erklärte.
The judge accepted the evidence after the expert explained his results.
Ich erkannte ihn sofort an seiner Stimme.
I recognized him immediately by his voice.
Ich erkenne dich wieder.
I recognize you again.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture spotting a friend in a crowd and a lightbulb going on when you realize who it is
sounds like 'her-ken' — imagine someone saying 'I can ken (see) that person'
Notes
Erkennen is inseparable and commonly used for perceiving or becoming aware of something. Perfect uses haben + erkannt.