01
einlösen
to redeem
To exchange a voucher, prescription, or check for goods, a service, or money.
example
Sie können diesen Gutschein in jeder unserer Filialen einlösen.
You can redeem this voucher in any of our branches.
einlösen
to redeem / fulfill
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Einlösen' (to redeem / fulfill) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'ein-' goes at the end of the sentence. In a subordinate clause or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb is not separated.
EXAMPLE
Ich löse meinen Gutschein an der Kasse ein.
I redeem my voucher at the checkout.
Context clue
The object of the verb reveals the meaning. If it is a concrete means of exchange such as 'Gutschein' (voucher), 'Scheck' (check), or 'Rezept' (prescription), the first meaning is intended. With abstract nouns such as 'Versprechen' (promise), 'Drohung' (threat), or 'Hoffnung' (hope), it is about the second, figurative meaning.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss noch mein Rezept in der Apotheke einlösen.
I still need to redeem my prescription at the pharmacy.
Typical collocations
Common combinations for exchanging something are: 'einen Gutschein einlösen' (to redeem a voucher), 'einen Rabattcode einlösen' (to redeem a discount code), 'Bonuspunkte einlösen' (to redeem bonus points), or 'ein Rezept einlösen' (to redeem a prescription).
EXAMPLE
Online können Sie den Rabattcode direkt im Warenkorb einlösen.
Online, you can redeem the discount code directly in the shopping cart.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'einlösen' (to fulfill) is often used with abstract concepts: 'ein Versprechen einlösen' (to fulfill a promise), 'eine Drohung einlösen' (to carry out a threat), or 'Erwartungen einlösen' (to meet expectations).
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft konnte die hohen Erwartungen der Fans nicht einlösen.
The team could not fulfill the fans' high expectations.
Compare with
einlösen vs halten
to hold
'halten' and 'einlösen' can both be used with promises. If you keep a promise, you do what you promised. 'einlösen' sounds a little stronger and emphasizes that the promise really turns into an action. Learners may confuse the words because both can mean “to fulfill.” But the natural phrases are: 'ein Versprechen halten' (to keep a promise) or 'ein Versprechen einlösen' (to fulfill a promise). With vouchers, prescriptions, or checks, only 'einlösen' fits.
einlösen
Nach der Prüfung löst Anna ihr Versprechen ein und lädt ihre Freundin zum Essen ein.
After the exam, Anna fulfills her promise and invites her friend out to eat.
halten
Tom hat sein Versprechen gehalten und mir beim Umzug geholfen.
Tom kept his promise and helped me move.
In real life
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