01
anheben
to lift
To lift something slightly upward or raise it a little.
example
Er musste den schweren Stein anheben, um darunter zu schauen.
He had to lift the heavy stone to look underneath it.
anheben
to lift / raise
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Anheben' (to lift/raise) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'an' comes at the end. In a subordinate clause and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er hebt den Deckel vorsichtig an.
He carefully lifts the lid.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning of 'anheben' (to lift/raise/begin) from the object. A concrete, physical object is lifted slightly. An abstract value (price, salary) is raised. A song or speech is begun.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du den Tisch kurz anheben?
Can you lift the table for a moment?
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'erhöhen' (to raise/increase), 'anheben' is typically combined with abstract values. Common collocations are: 'die Preise anheben' (to raise prices), 'die Gehälter anheben' (to raise salaries), 'die Steuern anheben' (to raise taxes), or 'das Niveau anheben' (to raise the level).
EXAMPLE
Die Regierung plant, die Steuern für hohe Einkommen anzuheben.
The government plans to raise taxes for high incomes.
Register
The meaning 'to begin to speak or sing' is elevated and is used mainly in literature or in very formal contexts. It is rare in everyday language.
EXAMPLE
Der Priester hob die Stimme zum Gebet an.
The priest raised his voice in prayer.
Compare with
anheben vs beginnen
to begin
'beginnen' and 'anheben' can both mean the start of a spoken or vocal action. 'beginnen' is the normal and versatile word: a conversation, a lecture, or a song can begin. 'anheben' in this meaning is elevated in style and rather rare today. It fits especially in fixed or literary expressions when someone begins to speak, sing, or complain. In everyday language, 'beginnen' sounds much more natural. Use 'anheben' only when the style may be deliberately solemn or old-fashioned.
anheben
Der Chor hebt nach einem kurzen Moment zu einem alten Lied an.
After a brief moment, the choir begins an old song.
beginnen
In der Bibliothek beginnt der Gast leise ein Gespräch mit der Kollegin.
In the library, the guest quietly begins a conversation with the colleague.
In real life
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