to maintain
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to maintain
To leave something as it is; not to change a habit, rule, state, or direction.
Wir haben beschlossen, die bisherige Strategie auch im nächsten Jahr beizubehalten.
We decided to maintain the existing strategy next year as well.
'Beibehalten' is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'bei' stands at the end of the sentence. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive, the verb stays together.
Trotz der Kritik behält der Trainer seine Taktik bei.
Despite the criticism, the coach maintains his tactics.
When you form the infinitive with 'zu,' 'zu' comes between the prefix and the verb: 'beizubehalten.' This is typical for separable verbs.
Er versucht, seine positive Einstellung auch in schwierigen Zeiten beizubehalten.
He tries to maintain his positive attitude even in difficult times.
This verb is often used with abstract nouns in the accusative. Typical examples are 'einen Kurs beibehalten' (to maintain a course), 'eine Gewohnheit beibehalten' (to maintain a habit), or 'eine Regelung beibehalten' (to maintain a regulation).
Die Firma wird den eingeschlagenen Sparkurs beibehalten.
The company will maintain the austerity course it has taken.
'Beibehalten' tends to belong to formal or written language. It is often found in official announcements, reports, or politics.
Die Regierung hat angekündigt, die aktuellen Maßnahmen beizubehalten.
The government has announced that it will maintain the current measures.
to receive / preserve / support
'erhalten' and 'beibehalten' are similar when something is not supposed to disappear or change. 'erhalten' emphasizes that you protect, care for, or preserve something from being lost. It fits well with buildings, nature, health, or traditions. 'beibehalten' emphasizes that you do not change something, for example a plan, a rule, a habit, or a direction. The confusion arises because in both cases the old state continues. As a guide: 'erhalten' sounds more like protection, while 'beibehalten' sounds more like a decision against making a change.
Wir behalten den Termin am Freitag bei, obwohl einige Kollegen wenig Zeit haben.
We are keeping the appointment on Friday, even though some colleagues have little time.
Regelmäßige Bewegung hilft, die Gesundheit lange zu erhalten.
Regular exercise helps preserve your health for a long time.