01
zurücknehmen
to retract
To withdraw a statement, claim, or offer so that it no longer applies.
example
Ich nehme meine Anschuldigung zurück, es war ein Missverständnis.
I retract my accusation; it was a misunderstanding.
zurücknehmen
to take back
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Zurücknehmen' (to take back) is a separable verb. The prefix 'zurück' goes at the end in a main clause, while in a subordinate clause it remains attached to the verb. In the infinitive with 'zu', 'zu' goes between the prefix and the verb.
EXAMPLE
Er nimmt sein unfreundliches Wort sofort zurück.
He immediately takes back his unfriendly word.
Word structure
The word is made up of 'zurück' (back) and 'nehmen' (to take). The literal meaning 'to take something back to oneself' helps you understand most uses, whether it is about a statement, an item, or speed.
EXAMPLE
Der Verkäufer musste die beschädigte Ware zurücknehmen.
The seller had to take back the damaged goods.
Reflexive use
In the meaning 'sich mäßigen' (to moderate oneself), the verb is always used reflexively with 'sich'. The person holding back is the subject of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Bei diesem heiklen Thema solltest du dich besser etwas zurücknehmen.
With this sensitive topic, you should hold back a little.
Typical collocations
When it is about withdrawal or retraction, 'zurücknehmen' (to retract/take back) is often combined with abstract nouns such as 'eine Aussage' (a statement), 'ein Angebot' (an offer), 'eine Kritik' (a criticism), or 'eine Warnung' (a warning).
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker musste seine umstrittene Aussage öffentlich zurücknehmen.
The politician had to publicly retract his controversial statement.
Typical collocations
When it is about reducing intensity, typical combinations are 'das Tempo zurücknehmen' (to reduce the pace), 'die Geschwindigkeit zurücknehmen' (to reduce speed), or 'den Druck zurücknehmen' (to reduce pressure).
EXAMPLE
Der Fahrer nahm vor der Kurve die Geschwindigkeit zurück.
The driver reduced his speed before the curve.
Compare with
zurücknehmen vs erhöhen
to increase
'erhöhen' and 'zurücknehmen' can be opposites when it comes to strength, speed, or extent. 'erhöhen' then means to make something stronger, larger, or higher. In this context, 'zurücknehmen' means to reduce something or make it less strong. Important: 'zurücknehmen' also has other meanings, for example to retract a statement or to accept back an item. As the opposite of 'erhöhen', it only fits with things like speed, volume, or intensity.
zurücknehmen
Wir nehmen die Musik zurück, weil das Kind schlafen möchte.
We are turning the music down because the child wants to sleep.
erhöhen
Beim Training erhöht Amira langsam das Tempo.
During training, Amira slowly increases the pace.
In real life
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