01
haften (für)
to be liable for
To be legally or financially responsible for damage, a debt, or an obligation that has occurred, and to have to answer for it.
example
Eltern haften für ihre Kinder.
Parents are liable for their children.
haften
to be liable / to stick
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Meaning through preposition
The preposition after 'haften' changes the meaning completely. 'Haften für' means to take responsibility, while 'haften an/auf' describes physical sticking.
EXAMPLE
Der Aufkleber haftet nicht gut auf der rauen Wand.
The sticker does not stick well to the rough wall.
Sentence structure with 'für'
In the legal meaning, 'haften' always appears with the preposition 'für' followed by the accusative. The structure is: someone is liable for something/someone.
EXAMPLE
Laut Vertrag haftet die Firma für alle Lieferverzögerungen.
According to the contract, the company is liable for all delivery delays.
Sentence structure with 'an/auf'
When 'haften' means 'kleben' (to stick), it is used with the prepositions 'an' or 'auf' and the dative. It describes where something is physically attached.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Spaziergang im Wald haftete Schmutz an meinen Schuhen.
After the walk in the forest, dirt was sticking to my shoes.
Fixed expression
The expression 'im Gedächtnis haften bleiben' (to remain in memory) is a fixed combination. It describes a memory that is very strong and present. The person is in the dative.
EXAMPLE
Diese besondere Melodie ist mir seit meiner Kindheit im Gedächtnis haften geblieben.
This special melody has remained in my memory since my childhood.
Compare with
haften vs tragen
to wear / carry
'tragen' and 'haften' can both express that someone has to bear consequences or costs. 'tragen' is more general: you can bear costs, responsibility, or consequences. 'haften' is used especially in legal or financial situations. It means that someone is responsible for damage, a debt, or an obligation and has to pay or answer for it. The words can be confused because both have to do with responsibility. However, 'haften' is narrower and more legal; 'tragen' also fits in normal everyday situations.
haften
Bei einem Schaden haftet der Mieter für die Reparatur.
If there is any damage, the tenant is liable for the repair.
tragen
Die Eltern tragen die Kosten für die Klassenfahrt.
The parents bear the costs of the class trip.
In real life
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