German Conversation · Level 25
90 words
German word
retten
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈʁɛtn̩/
Meaning
- verbsave
Example
Er rettet das Kind aus dem See.
He is saving the child from the lake.
More examples
Die Ärzte konnten das Leben retten.
The doctors were able to save a life.
Core concept
A lifebuoy reaches someone in danger and brings that person back to safety.
Common phrases
das Leben retten
save a life
jemanden retten
save someone
Similar words
helfen: Offer assistance to someone who is having difficulty.
unterstützen: Help someone cope with a problem or difficult situation.
schützen: Prevent harm by guarding against danger or attack.
Definition in German
jemanden oder etwas aus einer akuten Gefahrensituation bringen, damit die Person oder Sache keinen Schaden nimmt.
Word origin
The modern verb retten continues the Old High German form retten through Middle High German, preserving its Germanic rescue meaning.
Usage tips
- Retten usually implies serious or immediate danger, whereas helfen is the broader verb for providing help.