bemerken
/bəˈmɛrkən/
Definition
To notice or realize something, often something small or easy to miss.
Example
Ich habe bemerkt, dass die Tür offen war.
Show translation
I noticed that the door was open.
Etymology
From the prefix *be-* (making the verb transitive/intensive) + *merken*, meaning "to mark" or "to note," from Middle High German *merken*, and ultimately from Old High German *merchan*, related to English "mark." The core sense is "to put a mental mark on something" — i.e., to take note of it.
Cultural note
*Bemerken* is the neutral, everyday verb for noticing. Learners sometimes confuse it with *anmerken* (to remark/comment on something to others) or *merken* (to realize/become aware, often gradually). For example: *Ich merke, dass ich müde werde* (I'm starting to feel tired) vs. *Ich bemerke einen Fehler* (I notice a mistake). Keep the trio straight and you'll sound natural in German.