German word

einhalten

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈaɪ̯nˌhaltən/

Meaning

  • verbkeep

Example

Ich halte das Versprechen ein.

I keep the promise.

Illustration for einhalten (keep)

More examples

Bei Projekten muss man die Fristen einhalten.

For projects, deadlines must be met.

Core concept

A person keeps a commitment inside the rules or limits that define it.

Common phrases

  • Versprechen einhalten

    keep a promise

  • Fristen einhalten

    meet deadlines

  • Regeln einhalten

    follow rules

Similar words

befolgen: Following an instruction, command, or rule exactly as given.
beachten: Taking rules, conditions, or warnings into account and observing them.
erfüllen: Fulfilling a requirement, promise, or condition as expected.
respektieren: Respecting another person's wishes or a rule by avoiding violations.

Definition in German

Eine Verpflichtung oder ein Versprechen erfüllen und nicht dagegen verstoßen.

Word origin

The verb is formed from ein- and halten, whose combined meaning extends from holding something in to adhering to an obligation or agreement.

Usage tips

  • Einhalten takes an accusative object, such as ein Versprechen, eine Regel, or eine Frist, rather than a prepositional object like English comply with often does.

Other meanings

  • comply withverb
  • fulfillverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word