onthouden — meaning in English: to remember

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Guess the translation for to remember

onthouden

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neutral common

Usage

Native Dutch speakers often use 'onthouden' in educational settings when discussing study techniques or during conversations about personal memories. For example, a student might say, 'Ik moet deze informatie onthouden voor het examen,' meaning 'I need to remember this information for the exam.' It is also common in casual conversations about past events, such as reminiscing about a holiday.

Synonyms & nuances

'Onthouden' can be compared to 'herinneren,' which also means 'to remember.' However, 'herinneren' often implies a more emotional connection to memories, while 'onthouden' is more about retaining factual information. You would use 'onthouden' when discussing memorization or recalling specific details.

Culture

'Onthouden' comes from the combination of 'on' (away) and 'houden' (to hold), which literally translates to 'to hold away' in English, reflecting the act of retaining information in one's mind. This word not only plays a crucial role in the context of education but also reflects the Dutch value placed on memory and learning from experiences, as the country has a rich history of innovation and scholarship.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 'onthouden' in a sentence?

'Onthouden' is used to express the act of remembering something. For example, you might say, 'Ik probeer het te onthouden,' which translates to, 'I am trying to remember it.'

Q.What are some common phrases with 'onthouden'?

Common phrases include 'onthouden wat je hebt geleerd' (remember what you have learned) and 'ik kan het me niet onthouden' (I can't remember it). These phrases highlight the practical application of the word in everyday conversation.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'onthouden'?

A common mistake is confusing 'onthouden' with 'vergeten' (to forget). While 'onthouden' focuses on the act of remembering, 'vergeten' deals with the failure to remember. It's essential to use them in the correct context to convey your meaning accurately.

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Dutch Vocabulary