01
einstecken
to put in
To put something into a pocket, bag, or another container.
example
Er hat sein Portemonnaie in die Jackentasche eingesteckt.
He put his wallet in his jacket pocket.
einstecken
to put in / to take
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Einstecken' (to put in / to take) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'ein-' comes at the end of the sentence. In the infinitive with 'zu', 'zu' comes between the prefix and the verb.
EXAMPLE
Er steckt den Schlüssel in seine Hosentasche ein.
He puts the key in his trouser pocket.
Word structure
The verb consists of 'ein-' (in/into) and 'stecken' (to put/stick). The literal meaning 'to put something into something' is the basis for the figurative meanings.
EXAMPLE
Steck den Stecker in die Steckdose ein.
Plug the plug into the socket.
Context clue
You can recognize the literal meaning from the fact that it involves a concrete object (e.g., phone, money) and a concrete place (e.g., pocket, backpack).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat den Brief schnell in ihre Handtasche eingesteckt.
She quickly put the letter in her handbag.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning 'to endure,' 'einstecken' is often combined with negative, abstract things. Typical phrases are: 'Kritik einstecken' (to take criticism), 'eine Niederlage einstecken' (to suffer a defeat), or 'einen Verlust einstecken' (to take a loss).
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft musste eine schwere Niederlage einstecken.
The team had to suffer a heavy defeat.
Register
The meaning 'to secretly keep something for oneself' is colloquial and has a negative connotation. It implies that the action is dishonest.
EXAMPLE
Hat er das Wechselgeld einfach eingesteckt?
Did he simply pocket the change?
Compare with
einstecken vs stecken
to stick / to be stuck
'stecken' and 'einstecken' can both mean putting something into something else. 'stecken' is more general: you can put something into a hole, into an opening, or between other things. 'einstecken' fits especially well when you put something into a pocket, bag, or container and then take it with you. The words are easy to confuse because 'einstecken' looks like a form of 'stecken'. When it is about a jacket pocket, trouser pocket, or handbag, 'einstecken' often sounds more natural.
einstecken
Vor dem Termin hat Anna ihr Handy schnell eingesteckt.
Before the appointment, Anna quickly put her phone in her pocket.
stecken
Kannst du den Schlüssel in das Schloss stecken?
Can you put the key in the lock?
In real life
Loading video examples...