To successfully get something done, repair something, or do something correctly, often despite difficulties. It is a colloquial expression for 'schaffen' (to manage) or 'bewältigen' (to cope with, to handle).
example
Ich bin mir nicht sicher, ob ich die Präsentation bis morgen hinbekomme.
I'm not sure whether I can manage the presentation by tomorrow.
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Hinbekommen' (to manage, to fit in) is a separable verb with the prefix 'hin-'. In a main clause, the prefix goes at the end. In a subordinate clause and in the infinitive, the verb stays together, with 'zu' placed between 'hin' and 'bekommen' in an infinitive clause.
EXAMPLE
Ich bekomme das Fahrrad allein hin.
I can manage the bicycle on my own.
Register: colloquial language
This word is mainly used in spoken colloquial language. It sounds informal and suitable for everyday situations.
EXAMPLE
Keine Sorge, das bekommen wir schon irgendwie hin.
Don't worry, we'll manage it somehow.
Typical collocations
When it is about managing to do something, 'hinbekommen' (to manage) is often combined with tasks or problems: 'eine Reparatur hinbekommen' (to manage a repair), 'das Essen hinbekommen' (to manage the meal), 'eine schwierige Situation hinbekommen' (to handle a difficult situation).
EXAMPLE
Der Techniker hat den Drucker schnell wieder hinbekommen.
The technician quickly managed to get the printer working again.
Context clue
In this meaning, it is about physically bringing something to a place or fitting it somewhere. The context often contains an indication of place, e.g. 'in den Koffer' (into the suitcase), 'an den Tisch' (at the table), or 'ins Auto' (into the car).
EXAMPLE
Ich weiß nicht, ob wir alle Koffer ins Auto hinbekommen.
I don't know whether we can fit all the suitcases into the car.
Compare with
near_synonym
hinzubekommen vs schaffen
to manage / create
'schaffen' and 'hinzubekommen' can both mean that something succeeds, even though it may be difficult. 'schaffen' is neutral and very flexible. 'hinzubekommen' is more colloquial and fits well when you solve something practical, do something correctly, or get something working again. It often sounds as if you have to try things out a bit. In many everyday situations, both are possible. However, 'schaffen' also works well in factual or more formal situations, while 'hinzubekommen' sounds more casual.
hinzubekommen
Versuchst du, die lockere Schraube am Abend wieder hinzubekommen?
Are you going to try to fix the loose screw this evening?
schaffen
Sie schafft die Reise mit den Kindern, auch wenn es anstrengend wird.
She manages the trip with the children, even if it will be tiring.