ab|halten
Translation
to hold (an event), to conduct, to prevent, to keep from
Examples
Wir halten eine Konferenz ab.
We are holding a conference.
Das hält mich nicht vom Lernen ab.
That doesn't keep me from studying.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to hold (sth.) The company holds a meeting every week.
((sb.)) ((from sth.)) to prevent (sb.) from (sth.) The rain kept us from going out.
Similar Words
Synonyms: veranstalten, durchführen (to hold); verhindern (to prevent)
Etymology
From 'ab-' (off, away) + 'halten' (to hold). The idea is either 'to hold' an event (setting it apart in time) or 'to hold someone away' from something (to prevent).
Memory Tips
Think of 'holding' (halten) an event 'apart' (ab) from the normal schedule. To 'hold someone off' (abhalten) from doing something is to prevent them.