aufrechterhalten
to maintain
To ensure that a certain state, order, or situation continues to exist and does not end or get interrupted.
EXAMPLE
Es ist wichtig, die öffentliche Ordnung aufrechtzuerhalten.
It is important to maintain public order.
aufrechterhalten
to maintain
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Meanings
aufrechterhalten
to maintain
To hold on to a claim, offer, demand, or opinion and not withdraw or change it.
EXAMPLE
Trotz der Kritik hält der Politiker seine Forderung aufrecht.
Despite the criticism, the politician maintains his demand.
aufrechterhalten
to maintain
To keep up a relationship or contact with someone so that it does not break off.
EXAMPLE
Auch nach dem Umzug versuchten sie, den Kontakt zu ihren alten Freunden aufrechtzuerhalten.
Even after the move, they tried to maintain contact with their old friends.
Usage tips
Word composition
The verb is made up of 'aufrecht' (upright) and 'erhalten' (to preserve/maintain). The literal meaning 'etwas aufrecht halten' (to keep something upright) helps you understand the figurative meaning: you make sure that something does not collapse or come to an end.
EXAMPLE
Die Firma konnte die Produktion auch während der Krise aufrechterhalten.
The company was able to maintain production even during the crisis.
Separable verb
'Aufrechterhalten' (to maintain) is a separable verb. In a main clause, 'aufrecht' comes at the end of the sentence. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu' (aufrechtzuerhalten), the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er hält den Kontakt zu seinen Kollegen aufrecht.
He maintains contact with his colleagues.
Formal usage
This verb belongs to formal language and is mainly used in written, official, or elevated contexts.
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei muss die öffentliche Sicherheit aufrechterhalten.
The police must maintain public safety.
Typical objects
The verb is used with abstract nouns. Typical phrases are 'den Kontakt' (contact), 'die Ordnung' (order), 'ein Angebot' (an offer), 'eine Forderung' (a demand), or 'die Kommunikation' (communication) with 'aufrechterhalten' (to maintain).
EXAMPLE
Trotz der Meinungsverschiedenheit hielt sie ihr Angebot aufrecht.
Despite the disagreement, she maintained her offer.
Compare with
aufrechterhalten vs erhalten
to receive / preserve / support
Both words can express that something continues to exist. Erhalten emphasizes preserving and caring for an existing state. Aufrechterhalten is especially appropriate when something is actively prevented from ending or being interrupted.
aufrechterhalten
Ein Notstromaggregat soll den Betrieb des Museums bei Stromausfall aufrechterhalten.
A backup generator is intended to keep the museum operating during a power outage.
erhalten
Regelmäßige Pflege soll den guten Zustand des Museums erhalten.
Regular maintenance is intended to preserve the museum's good condition.
In real life
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