to cut into / bring up
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to cut into
To make the first cut into something, especially food such as a cake, a loaf of bread, or a roast, in order to serve it.
Wer von euch möchte die Geburtstagstorte anschneiden?
Which of you would like to cut into the birthday cake?
'Anschneiden' is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'an-' goes at the end of the sentence. In subordinate clauses and infinitive constructions, the verb stays together.
Der Bürgermeister schneidet die Torte feierlich an.
The mayor ceremoniously cuts into the cake.
The verb consists of the prefix 'an-' and the verb 'schneiden' (to cut). The prefix 'an-' here expresses the beginning of an action. So you begin to cut something—whether literally a cake or figuratively a topic.
Sobald der erste Gast da ist, können wir das Brot anschneiden.
As soon as the first guest arrives, we can cut into the bread.
The figurative meaning is used almost exclusively with abstract nouns that refer to a topic of conversation. Typical combinations are 'ein Thema anschneiden' (to bring up a topic), 'ein Problem anschneiden' (to bring up a problem), or 'eine heikle Frage anschneiden' (to raise a sensitive question).
Er hat während des Abendessens vorsichtig das Thema Gehaltserhöhung angeschnitten.
He cautiously brought up the topic of a salary increase during dinner.
to mention
'erwähnen' and 'ein Thema anschneiden' can both mean bringing a topic into a conversation. However, 'erwähnen' more often means that you briefly mention something and then perhaps do not discuss it further. 'anschneiden' means that you begin a topic, often cautiously or only briefly, but with the possibility of talking about it more. Learners may confuse the words because both can fit in short conversations. 'erwähnen' is more neutral and general; 'anschneiden' fits especially when a topic is newly brought into the conversation.
Vor der Reise schneidet ihr das Thema Versicherung noch einmal an.
Before the trip, you bring up the topic of insurance once more.
Ich habe beim Arzt nur kurz erwähnt, dass ich oft müde bin.
At the doctor's, I only briefly mentioned that I am often tired.