to support / lean
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to support
To physically hold something or someone so that it does not fall over, sink, or collapse.
Die Decke des alten Kellers muss mit zusätzlichen Balken gestützt werden.
The ceiling of the old cellar has to be supported with additional beams.
The verb 'stützen' (to support) is closely related to the noun 'die Stütze' (support). A 'Stütze' is an object that physically holds something, which explains the basic meaning of the verb.
Der Architekt plant eine zusätzliche Stütze für das Dach.
The architect is planning an additional support for the roof.
The reflexive phrase 'sich stützen auf' (to be based on) is always used with the accusative. You base an argument on a foundation.
Der Anwalt stützte seine Verteidigung auf einen Formfehler im Verfahren.
The lawyer based his defense on a procedural error in the trial.
In the meaning of 'basieren auf' (to be based on), 'sich stützen auf' is often combined with words from the area of knowledge and information: 'sich auf Fakten stützen' (to be based on facts), 'sich auf Daten stützen' (to be based on data), 'sich auf eine Studie stützen' (to be based on a study).
Meine Annahme stützt sich auf die neuesten wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse.
My assumption is based on the latest scientific findings.
When 'sich stützen' describes body posture, it is used reflexively. It is often followed by a preposition such as 'auf' or 'mit' to describe what you lean on or what you use for support.
Müde stützte sie ihren Kopf in die Hände.
Tired, she rested her head in her hands.
The meaning of 'stützen' depends strongly on the object. If you support a wall, it is physical. If you support a plan, it is moral or ideological. If you base something on facts, it is argumentative.
Wir müssen die alte Wand mit Brettern stützen.
We have to support the old wall with boards.
to hold
'halten' and 'stützen' can both mean that something does not fall or give way. 'halten' is more general: you take something in your hand and do not let go, or something remains stable. 'stützen' fits more specifically when someone or something needs additional support so that it does not fall over or collapse. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with support or stability. A simple guide is: you 'hält' an object in your hand, but you 'stützt' a person, a wall, or yourself when support is needed.
Nach dem Unfall stützte Tom seinen Freund auf dem Weg zum Auto.
After the accident, Tom supported his friend on the way to the car.
Kannst du bitte kurz meine Tasche halten?
Can you please hold my bag for a moment?