01
innehaben
to hold
To have or exercise an official position, office, or function. It is a formal expression.
example
Sie hat seit fünf Jahren den Lehrstuhl für moderne Geschichte inne.
She has held the chair of modern history for five years.
innehaben
to hold
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Meanings
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Innehaben' (to hold) is a separable verb. The prefix 'inne' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive, the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er hat dieses wichtige Amt schon seit zehn Jahren inne.
He has held this important office for ten years.
Register
This verb belongs to formal or elevated language. You will find it mainly in official texts, news reports, or formal speeches.
EXAMPLE
Die Kanzlerin hat die Regierungsgewalt inne.
The chancellor holds governmental power.
Typical collocations
'Innehaben' (to hold) is always used with a position or function as an accusative object. Typical objects are: 'ein Amt' (an office), 'eine Position' (a position), 'einen Posten' (a post), 'einen Lehrstuhl' (a chair), or 'die Macht' (power).
EXAMPLE
Wer wird nach der Wahl das Amt des Bürgermeisters innehaben?
Who will hold the office of mayor after the election?
Compare with
innehaben vs übernehmen
to take over / take on
'übernehmen' and 'innehaben' can both have to do with a role, office, or responsibility. 'übernehmen' emphasizes the moment when someone accepts or receives a task, leadership role, or responsibility. After that, the person carries it out. 'innehaben' describes more of a state: someone holds an official office or function. It sounds more formal and is especially suitable in official texts. Learners may confuse the words because both occur with positions. In practice: you use 'ein Amt übernehmen' when you newly receive an office; you use 'ein Amt innehaben' when you hold or exercise it.
innehaben
Frau Becker hat seit Montag das Amt der Vorsitzenden inne.
Ms. Becker has held the office of chairwoman since Monday.
übernehmen
Nach dem Urlaub übernimmt Erik die Leitung des Projekts.
After the vacation, Erik will take over the leadership of the project.
In real life
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