German Conversation · Level 108
57 words
German word
pflegen
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈpfleːgən/
Meaning
- verbtake care of
Example
Meine Mutter pflegt ihre kranke Nachbarin.
My mother takes care of her sick neighbor.
More examples
Ich pflege regelmäßig Kontakte zu ehemaligen Kollegen.
I regularly maintain contact with former colleagues.
Core concept
Regular tending supports someone or something over time instead of helping only once.
Common phrases
jemanden pflegen
take care of someone
Kontakte pflegen
maintain contacts
Auto pflegen
maintain a car
Similar words
versorgen: Supply someone with the care and necessities needed at the time.
sorgen für: Be responsible for caring for someone or making necessary arrangements.
betreuen: Look after or manage someone or something on an ongoing or professional basis.
Kontakt halten: Continue regular contact with someone to maintain the relationship.
Definition in German
Kontinuierlich für das Wohlergehen von Menschen sorgen oder durch Aufmerksamkeit und Handlungen Beziehungen und Gegenstände erhalten.
Word origin
Modern German pflegen developed from the older Germanic forms Middle High German phlegen and Old High German pflegan, both associated with caring for or tending.
Usage tips
- Beziehungen pflegen means to maintain relationships through continued contact and attention, not merely to possess or value them.
Other meanings
- nurseverb
- tendverb
- maintainverb
- cultivateverb
Opposites
- vernachlässigenneglectverb
Related words
- die Pflegecarenoun
- Pflegekraftcare workernoun
- gepflegtwell-maintainedadjective