01
unterbringen
to accommodate
To provide someone with accommodation or a place to sleep.
example
Wir können unsere Gäste für eine Nacht im Gästezimmer unterbringen.
We can accommodate our guests in the guest room for one night.
unterbringen
to accommodate / fit
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Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Unterbringen' (to accommodate / fit) is a separable verb. The prefix 'unter' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Er bringt seine Sachen im Schrank unter.
He puts his things away in the closet.
Word structure
The verb is made up of 'unter' and 'bringen' (to bring). The literal idea is to bring something or someone to a place, that is, to find a place for them or it.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen noch einen Platz finden, um die neuen Stühle unterzubringen.
We still need to find a place to store the new chairs.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the object: if it refers to people, it is about accommodation (m01) or a job (m03). If it refers to objects, it is about storing or fitting something in (m02).
EXAMPLE
Können wir die Gäste für eine Nacht bei euch unterbringen?
Can we accommodate the guests at your place for one night?
Compare with
unterbringen vs aufnehmen
to record / take in
'aufnehmen' and 'unterbringen' can both mean that someone gets a place. 'aufnehmen' often sounds more general and can mean that a person comes into a group, a house, or an institution. 'unterbringen' puts more emphasis on the practical place: someone needs accommodation, a place to sleep, or sometimes a position. If a family lets someone live with them, it can 'jemanden aufnehmen' or 'jemanden unterbringen' (take someone in / accommodate someone). 'aufnehmen' sounds more like including someone, while 'unterbringen' sounds more like finding a concrete place.
unterbringen
Für die Gäste bringen wir zwei Betten im Wohnzimmer unter.
For the guests, we are putting two beds in the living room.
aufnehmen
Nach dem Brand nahm die Nachbarin die Familie für ein paar Tage auf.
After the fire, the neighbor took the family in for a few days.
In real life
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