01
runterholen
to bring down
To bring or get something down from an elevated position.
example
Kannst du mir bitte die Kiste vom obersten Regal runterholen?
Can you please bring the box down from the top shelf for me?
runterholen
to bring down / calm down
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Runterholen' (to bring down) is a separable verb. The prefix 'runter' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich hole dir den Koffer vom Schrank runter.
I'll bring the suitcase down from the wardrobe for you.
Colloquial form
The prefix 'runter' is a colloquial short form of 'herunter' (down). In more formal contexts or in written language, you would use 'herunterholen' (to bring down/get down).
EXAMPLE
Der Bibliothekar holte das alte Buch vorsichtig vom Regal herunter.
The librarian carefully took the old book down from the shelf.
Distinguishing meanings
You can recognize the meaning from the object: if it refers to an object, the literal meaning is intended. If the object is a person, it is about calming someone down. You can recognize the vulgar meaning from the fixed expression 'jemandem einen runterholen' (to give someone a handjob).
EXAMPLE
Er holte die Lampe von der Decke runter.
He took the lamp down from the ceiling.
Register: vulgar language
The expression 'jemandem einen runterholen' (to give someone a handjob) is a vulgar expression for a sexual act. It belongs to crude colloquial language and should only be used with extreme caution, as it is perceived as very direct and often offensive.
EXAMPLE
Der Film wurde wegen einiger expliziter Szenen kritisiert.
The film was criticized because of several explicit scenes.
Compare with
runterholen vs abnehmen
to lose weight / decrease / take off
'abnehmen' and 'runterholen' can both mean that you remove something from a place. 'abnehmen' fits when something is lying on a surface, is on the body, or is hanging on something. 'runterholen' is used when something is higher up and you bring it down. It sounds more colloquial than 'abnehmen'. Learners may confuse the words because in both cases you take something away. The important point is the direction: 'runterholen' emphasizes the movement from up above to down below, while 'abnehmen' only emphasizes removal.
runterholen
Kannst du bitte die Tasche vom Schrank runterholen?
Can you please bring the bag down from the cupboard?
abnehmen
Vor dem Schlafen nimmt Emma die Kette ab.
Before going to sleep, Emma takes off the necklace.
In real life
Loading video examples...