to collect / drive in
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to collect
To demand and collect debts or other outstanding sums of money firmly, often also by legal means.
Das Unternehmen hat ein Inkassobüro beauftragt, die unbezahlten Rechnungen einzutreiben.
The company hired a collection agency to collect the unpaid invoices.
'Eintreiben' (to collect / drive in) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ein-' separates from the verb 'treiben' in a main clause and stands at the end.
Das Finanzamt treibt die fälligen Steuern ein.
The tax office collects the taxes due.
The word is made up of 'ein' and 'treiben'. The prefix 'ein-' here means 'inward' or 'into one's own possession'. The basic meaning of 'treiben' (to move something with pressure) is preserved in both meanings.
Der Gerichtsvollzieher sollte das Geld eintreiben.
The bailiff was supposed to collect the money.
This meaning is almost always used in connection with finances. Typical objects are 'Schulden' (debts), 'Geld' (money), 'Forderungen' (claims), or 'Steuern' (taxes).
Die Mafia ist bekannt dafür, Schutzgelder einzutreiben.
The mafia is known for collecting protection money.
This agricultural meaning is rare today and is considered becoming dated. It is found mainly in older texts or historical descriptions.
Jeden Abend trieb der Hirte die Schafe in den Stall ein.
Every evening, the shepherd drove the sheep into the stable.
to move in / collect / absorb
'einziehen' and 'eintreiben' can both mean that money is collected from or demanded from other people. 'einziehen' sounds more neutral or official, for example with taxes, contributions, or fees. 'eintreiben' fits especially with debts or outstanding money, when someone pays or has to pay under pressure. Learners may confuse the words because both cases involve money. As a simple guideline: regular or official amounts are more likely to be 'eingezogen'; difficult or overdue debts are more likely to be 'eingetrieben'.
Die Firma versucht seit Wochen, die offenen Rechnungen einzutreiben.
The company has been trying for weeks to collect the outstanding invoices.
Der Verein zieht den Mitgliedsbeitrag jeden Monat automatisch ein.
The association collects the membership fee automatically every month.