01
reinstecken
to stick in
To stick something into an opening, a container, or something else.
example
Hast du den Brief schon in den Umschlag reingesteckt?
Have you already stuck the letter into the envelope?
reinstecken
to stick in / put in
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Reinstecken' (to stick in/put in) is a separable verb with the prefix 'rein-'. In a main clause, the prefix goes at the end; in a subordinate clause, the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er steckt den Schlüssel in das Schloss rein.
He sticks the key into the lock.
Colloquial register
The verb 'reinstecken' (to stick in/put in) is considered colloquial. The prefix 'rein-' is a short, informal form of 'hinein-' (into/in).
EXAMPLE
Steck das Geld einfach in deine Tasche rein.
Just stick the money into your pocket.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning of the verb from the object. With concrete objects (key, letter), the literal meaning is intended. With abstract nouns (time, money, effort), the figurative meaning 'investieren' (to invest) is intended.
EXAMPLE
Sie hat den USB-Stick in den Laptop reingesteckt.
She stuck the USB drive into the laptop.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'reinstecken' (to put into/invest) is often used with abstract nouns such as 'Arbeit' (work), 'Mühe' (effort), 'Zeit' (time), 'Energie' (energy), or 'Geld' (money).
EXAMPLE
Wir haben viel Energie in die Renovierung der Wohnung reingesteckt.
We put a lot of energy into renovating the apartment.
Compare with
reinstecken vs einsetzen
to insert / to begin / to use
'einsetzen' and 'reinstecken' can both mean bringing something into something else. 'einsetzen' sounds more precise and fits when something goes into the correct place and is supposed to sit there or function there, for example a battery or a window. 'reinstecken' is more colloquial and more general: you simply stick something into a bag, opening, or box. There is also some overlap with time, money, or effort: 'Ressourcen einsetzen' (to use resources) sounds matter-of-fact, while 'viel Arbeit reinstecken' (to put a lot of work into it) sounds more everyday and colloquial. The words can be confused because both express putting something in or using something.
reinstecken
Tom steckt den Brief schnell in seine Tasche rein.
Tom quickly sticks the letter into his bag.
einsetzen
Der Techniker setzt eine neue Batterie in das Gerät ein.
The technician inserts a new battery into the device.
In real life
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