leisten
Translation
to afford, to achieve, to perform, to provide
Examples
Ich kann mir das nicht leisten.
I can't afford that.
Er hat Großes geleistet.
He has achieved great things.
Wir müssen Widerstand leisten.
We must offer resistance.
Grammar Patterns
sich3 et4 leisten to afford sth. I can afford a new car.
et4 leisten to achieve/perform sth. The team did a good job.
Similar Words
Synonyms: schaffen, vollbringen, sich gönnen; Antonyms: unterlassen
Etymology
From Old High German 'leistan' (to follow, perform). Related to the English word 'last' (in the sense of to endure, continue).
Memory Tips
Think of a 'list' of things you have to do or can afford. 'leisten' is about accomplishing what's on the list.