01
einladen
to invite
To ask someone to be a guest, for example at a celebration, a meal, or a visit.
example
Wir möchten euch herzlich zu unserer Hochzeit einladen.
We would like to warmly invite you to our wedding.
einladen
to invite / load
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Einladen' (to invite / load) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ein-' goes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er lädt seine Freunde zum Geburtstag ein.
He invites his friends to his birthday.
Word structure
The verb consists of the prefix 'ein-' and the verb 'laden' (to load). The literal meaning 'hineinladen' (to load into, e.g. boxes into a car) is still a main meaning of the word and helps in understanding the figurative meanings.
EXAMPLE
Hilfst du mir, die Einkäufe ins Auto einzuladen?
Will you help me load the groceries into the car?
Context clue
The meaning of 'einladen' depends strongly on the object. If you invite a person, it usually means 'to ask them as a guest'. If you load a thing, it means 'to load it into a vehicle'.
EXAMPLE
Sie hat ihre Nachbarn zum Grillen eingeladen.
She invited her neighbors for a barbecue.
The right preposition
When you invite someone to an event or a meal, you use the preposition 'zu' (+ dative). With drinks or snacks, 'auf' (+ accusative) is also very common.
EXAMPLE
Ich lade dich herzlich zu meiner Feier ein.
I warmly invite you to my party.
Figurative meaning
The expression 'zu etwas einladen' can also be used figuratively. It then means that a situation encourages or practically provokes something, usually something negative.
EXAMPLE
Das unklare Schild am Eingang lädt zu Missverständnissen ein.
The unclear sign at the entrance invites misunderstandings.
Compare with
einladen vs bezahlen
to pay
'bezahlen' and 'einladen' can both have to do with money. 'bezahlen' generally means to give money for something, for example for food, a bill, or a service. 'einladen' means, in this context, that you pay for another person. The words can be confused because in both cases someone gives money in the end. The important difference is: if you pay only your own bill, you 'bezahlen'. If you cover the costs for someone else, you 'lädst diese Person ein' (treat that person).
einladen
Zum Geburtstag lädt mich mein Vater ins Restaurant ein.
For my birthday, my father treats me to a meal at a restaurant.
bezahlen
An der Kasse bezahlt Lisa die Lebensmittel mit Karte.
At the checkout, Lisa pays for the groceries by card.
In real life
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