01
annehmen
to accept
To accept or receive something that is offered to you.
example
Ich kann dieses teure Geschenk nicht annehmen.
I can't accept this expensive gift.
annehmen
to accept / assume
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Annehmen' (to accept / assume) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an-' goes at the end in a main clause, stays attached to the verb in a subordinate clause, and in the infinitive with 'zu', 'zu' goes in between.
EXAMPLE
Er nimmt das Paket für seine Nachbarin an.
He accepts the package for his neighbor.
Sentence structure for assumptions
If you want to express an assumption, the structure 'Ich nehme an, dass ...' (I assume that ...) is very common. The subordinate clause with 'dass' then contains the assumption.
EXAMPLE
Ich nehme an, dass die Besprechung um 10 Uhr beginnt.
I assume that the meeting starts at 10 o'clock.
Genitive construction
The expression 'sich einer Sache annehmen' (to take care of something) requires the genitive. This is a fixed structure that occurs mainly in written language.
EXAMPLE
Der Bürgermeister will sich des Problems der alten Schule annehmen.
The mayor wants to take care of the problem of the old school.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'akzeptieren' (to accept), 'annehmen' (to accept) is often combined with things that you are offered, for example: to accept an offer, an invitation, help, or an apology.
EXAMPLE
Er hat ihre Entschuldigung sofort angenommen.
He accepted her apology immediately.
Context: politics & law
This meaning of 'annehmen' (to adopt) is used almost exclusively in formal, political, or legal contexts. Typical signal words are 'Parlament' (parliament), 'Gesetz' (law), 'Antrag' (motion/application), or 'Vorschlag' (proposal).
EXAMPLE
Der Antrag wurde mit großer Mehrheit angenommen.
The motion was adopted by a large majority.
Typical collocations
When something acquires a new quality, 'annehmen' (to take on) is often combined with words like 'Farbe' (color), 'Form' (form), or 'Gestalt' (shape).
EXAMPLE
Der Teig muss eine feste Form annehmen, bevor er gebacken wird.
The dough must take on a firm shape before it is baked.
Compare with
annehmen vs nehmen
to take
'nehmen' and 'annehmen' can both mean that you accept something you receive. 'nehmen' is simpler and more general; you can take/accept money, help, or an offer. 'annehmen' places more emphasis on the fact that something was offered and that you say yes to it. It often sounds a little more formal or precise, especially with invitations, offers, or apologies. The words can be confused because they work similarly in some sentences. When the act of accepting is important, 'annehmen' fits better.
annehmen
Nach der Nachricht nimmt Samir das Angebot des Verkäufers an.
After the message, Samir accepts the seller's offer.
nehmen
Die Ärztin nimmt für die Behandlung kein Bargeld.
The doctor does not accept cash for the treatment.
In real life
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