01
standhalten
to withstand
To resist pressure, an attack, or a strain without giving in or collapsing.
example
Die alte Brücke konnte dem Sturm nicht mehr standhalten.
The old bridge could no longer withstand the storm.
standhalten
to withstand
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Standhalten' (to withstand) is a separable verb. In main clauses, the prefix 'stand' goes at the end; in subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Das kleine Zelt hielt dem starken Wind nicht stand.
The small tent did not withstand the strong wind.
Dative construction
This verb always requires an object in the dative. The person or thing that one resists is in the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die Verteidigung konnte dem Angriff des Gegners standhalten.
The defense was able to withstand the opponent's attack.
Word structure
The verb is made up of 'stand' and 'halten' (to hold). The literal meaning is 'to hold one's ground' or 'to maintain one's position', which helps explain the figurative meaning.
EXAMPLE
Trotz des Drucks hielt sie an ihrer Meinung fest und hielt stand.
Despite the pressure, she stuck to her opinion and held her ground.
Context: physical pressure
In this meaning, it is about physical resistance against a force. Typical dative objects are 'der Druck' (the pressure), 'ein Angriff' (an attack), 'eine Belastung' (a strain), or 'der Sturm' (the storm).
EXAMPLE
Die Staumauer wurde gebaut, um den Wassermassen standzuhalten.
The dam was built to withstand the masses of water.
Context: abstract pressure
This meaning describes resisting psychological or social pressure. Typical objects are 'einem Blick' (a gaze), 'der Kritik' (criticism), 'einer Versuchung' (a temptation), or 'einer Befragung' (an interrogation).
EXAMPLE
Es fiel ihm schwer, der Versuchung standzuhalten und kein Stück Kuchen zu essen.
He found it hard to withstand the temptation and not eat a piece of cake.
Compare with
standhalten vs halten
to hold
'halten' and 'standhalten' can both mean that something does not break or give way. 'halten' is more general and is often used for things that remain stable under weight or pressure. 'standhalten' is more specific when something or someone has to withstand strong pressure, criticism, an attack, or a test. Learners may confuse the words because both express stability. As a guide: a shelf can 'halten' (hold), but a person, a material, or an argument can 'standhalten' (withstand / stand up to) a strain.
standhalten
Die neue Brücke muss starkem Wind standhalten.
The new bridge has to withstand strong winds.
halten
Das alte Seil hält das Gewicht noch gut.
The old rope still holds the weight well.
In real life
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