aufbewahren
to store
To keep something in a particular place for later use, often to protect it from loss or damage.
EXAMPLE
Wichtige Dokumente sollte man an einem sicheren Ort aufbewahren.
Important documents should be stored in a safe place.
aufbewahren
to store / keep
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Meanings
aufbewahren
to keep
To keep something immaterial, such as a memory, a feeling, or a secret, in one's memory or heart and not forget it.
EXAMPLE
Sie wird die Erinnerung an diesen wunderschönen Tag für immer aufbewahren.
She will keep the memory of this beautiful day forever.
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufbewahren' (to store/keep) is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together, with 'zu' placed between the parts.
EXAMPLE
Ich bewahre meine alten Fotos in einer Kiste auf.
I keep my old photos in a box.
Typical places
When you store something physical, the place is often mentioned. Typical formulations are 'im Kühlschrank aufbewahren' (to store in the refrigerator), 'an einem kühlen Ort aufbewahren' (to store in a cool place), or 'im Tresor aufbewahren' (to store in a safe).
EXAMPLE
Milchprodukte müssen Sie immer im Kühlschrank aufbewahren.
You must always store dairy products in the refrigerator.
Context clue
You can recognize this figurative meaning from the object of the verb. If it is something immaterial like 'eine Erinnerung' (a memory), 'ein Geheimnis' (a secret), or 'ein Gefühl' (a feeling), this meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Er hat ihr Geheimnis viele Jahre lang für sich aufbewahrt.
He kept her secret to himself for many years.
Compare with
aufbewahren vs behalten
to keep
Behalten and aufbewahren can both express that an object is not given away. Behalten emphasizes that it remains with its owner, while aufbewahren highlights storing or keeping it for later. Use behalten when deciding not to give something away and aufbewahren when storing it safely.
aufbewahren
Das Buch gefällt mir so gut, dass ich es für später aufbewahren möchte.
I like the book so much that I want to put it away for later.
behalten
Das Buch gefällt mir so gut, dass ich es behalten möchte.
I like the book so much that I want to keep it.
In real life
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