kümmern
Translation
to take care of, to look after, to concern
Examples
Ich kümmere mich um die Kinder.
I'll take care of the children.
Er kümmert sich um das Problem.
He is taking care of the problem.
Was kümmert es mich?
What do I care?
Grammar Patterns
sich ((um+4)) kümmern to take care of (sb./sth.) I take care of my sick mother.
((j-n)) kümmern to concern (sb.) That problem doesn't concern me.
Similar Words
Synonyms: sorgen für, sich befassen mit; Antonyms: ignorieren, vernachlässigen
Etymology
From Old High German 'kumbar' (distress, burden). Related to English 'cumber' and 'encumber'.
Memory Tips
Think of taking on someone's 'Kummer' (grief/trouble) when you 'kümmern' (take care of) them.