einpacken
to pack
To put objects into a container such as a suitcase, bag, or box in order to transport or store them.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss noch meinen Koffer für die Reise einpacken.
I still have to pack my suitcase for the trip.
einpacken
to pack / wrap
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Meanings
einpacken
to wrap
To wrap something in paper or another material, for example as a gift or for protection.
EXAMPLE
Können Sie mir das Buch bitte als Geschenk einpacken?
Could you please wrap the book for me as a gift?
sich einpacken
to bundle up
To dress very warmly in order to protect yourself from the cold.
EXAMPLE
Pack dich warm ein, draußen schneit es!
Bundle up warmly; it's snowing outside!
einpacken
to pack it in
Colloquial for giving up, admitting defeat, or stopping an activity.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem dritten Gegentor in zehn Minuten konnte die Mannschaft einpacken.
After conceding the third goal in ten minutes, the team could pack it in.
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Einpacken' (to pack / wrap) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ein-' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich packe schnell noch ein paar Bücher ein.
I'll quickly pack a few more books.
Reflexive use
The reflexive form 'sich einpacken' (to bundle up) means to dress very warmly. It is often used as a command in the imperative.
EXAMPLE
Pack dich gut ein, es sind minus zehn Grad draußen!
Bundle up well; it's minus ten degrees outside!
Colloquial use
The meaning 'aufgeben' (to give up) or 'eine Niederlage akzeptieren' (to accept defeat) is colloquial. It is mostly used in informal situations, often in sports or competitions.
EXAMPLE
Nachdem er zum fünften Mal verloren hatte, meinte er: „Okay, für heute kann ich einpacken.“
After he had lost for the fifth time, he said, 'Okay, I can pack it in for today.'
Typical collocations
When it comes to traveling, 'einpacken' (to pack) is often combined with the objects or the container. Typical phrases are: 'den Koffer einpacken' (to pack the suitcase), 'die Badesachen einpacken' (to pack swimwear), or 'Proviant einpacken' (to pack provisions).
EXAMPLE
Hast du auch Sonnencreme und einen Hut eingepackt?
Did you also pack sunscreen and a hat?
Context: gifts
This meaning is often used in the context of gifts or purchases. A typical question in a store is: 'Soll ich es Ihnen als Geschenk einpacken?' (Shall I wrap it for you as a gift?).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat das Geburtstagsgeschenk in buntes Papier eingepackt.
She wrapped the birthday present in colorful paper.
Compare with
einpacken vs aufhören
to stop
Aufhören neutrally refers to the end of an activity. Einpacken can also colloquially express stopping, but it sounds resigned and suggests that someone is giving up or admitting defeat. Use aufhören neutrally and einpacken in a casual, discouraged situation.
einpacken
Nach fünf verlorenen Spielen sagte Tim, dass er jetzt einpacken könne.
After losing five games, Tim said he could pack it in now.
aufhören
Nach einer Stunde hörte Tim mit dem Training auf, weil die Sporthalle schließen musste.
After an hour, Tim stopped training because the gym had to close.
In real life
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