01
zurücklegen
to cover
To cover a certain route or distance by walking, driving, or flying.
example
An einem Tag haben wir eine Strecke von 20 Kilometern zurückgelegt.
In one day, we covered a distance of 20 kilometers.
zurücklegen
to cover / put back / save
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Zurücklegen' is a separable verb. The prefix 'zurück-' appears at the end of the sentence in main clauses. In infinitive clauses with 'zu', 'zu' stands between 'zurück' and 'legen'.
EXAMPLE
Für die Reise legten wir jeden Tag eine weite Strecke zurück.
For the trip, we covered a long distance every day.
Word structure
The verb consists of 'zurück' (back) and 'legen' (to lay/put). This structure helps you understand the meanings: to 'put behind oneself' a distance, to 'put back' something in its place, or to 'set aside' money for later.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Lesen legte sie das Buch zurück ins Regal.
After reading, she put the book back on the shelf.
Context clue: the object
The object of the sentence reveals the meaning. If it is a distance, such as 'Strecke' (route/distance) or 'Kilometer' (kilometers), it is about traveling. If it is money, it is about saving. If it is an object, it is about putting it back in its place.
EXAMPLE
Die Wanderer haben 15 Kilometer zurückgelegt.
The hikers covered 15 kilometers.
Compare with
zurücklegen vs sparen
to save
'sparen' and 'zurücklegen' can both mean not spending money right away. 'sparen' is more general: you spend less money or collect money for later, often over a longer period of time. 'zurücklegen' emphasizes more strongly that you set aside a specific amount, often for a specific purpose. So you can say: 'Ich spare für ein Fahrrad' (I am saving for a bicycle). If you set aside 50 euros every month, you 'legst 50 Euro zurück'.
zurücklegen
Für den Urlaub legt Anna jeden Monat hundert Euro zurück.
Anna sets aside one hundred euros every month for her vacation.
sparen
Zu Hause sparen wir gerade für eine neue Waschmaschine.
At home, we are currently saving for a new washing machine.
In real life
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