unterhalten
entertain · chat · talk · converse
Mit jemandem sprechen oder etwas tun, um Spaß zu haben oder die Zeit angenehm zu gestalten.
The German word "unterhalten" is a verb with two main meanings depending on context:
- To entertain (provide amusement or enjoyment).
- To maintain/support (e.g., financially supporting someone or something).
- To converse (engage in a conversation).
The root verb is "halten" (to hold, to keep) with the prefix "unter-" (under, among).
Similar words:
- amüsieren (to amuse) – similar to "entertain"
- pflegen (to maintain) – related to "maintain/support"
- sprechen/reden (to talk, to speak) – similar to "converse"
Differences:
- "unterhalten" when meaning "converse" implies an exchange between people, while "sprechen/reden" just emphasize speaking.
- As "entertain," "unterhalten" refers broadly to amusement, while "amüsieren" often stresses light fun or pleasure.
- When used as "support," "unterhalten" conveys ongoing maintenance, unlike "pflegen," which emphasizes care or tending.
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Examples
Wir unterhalten uns über das Wetter.verb
We are talking about the weather.
Sie unterhalten sich angeregt.verb
They chat animatedly.
Wir unterhalten uns über das Buch.verb
We talk about the book
Am Abend kann man sich gut unterhalten.verb
In the evening, one can have a good conversation.
Freunde unterhalten sich gern beim Abendessen.verb
Friends like to chat at dinner.
Kinder unterhalten sich oft stundenlang im Park.verb
Children chat with each other for hours in the park.
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