unterhalten
Translation
to talk, to chat, to entertain, to maintain
Examples
Wir haben uns über das Wetter unterhalten.
We talked about the weather.
Der Film hat uns gut unterhalten.
The movie entertained us well.
Er muss eine große Familie unterhalten.
He has to support a large family.
Grammar Patterns
sich ((über+4)) unterhalten to talk about sth. We are talking about politics.
((j-n)) unterhalten to entertain sb. The comedian entertains the audience.
((j-n/et4)) unterhalten to maintain/support sb./sth. He supports his family.
Similar Words
Etymology
Composed of 'unter' (among, under) and 'halten' (to hold). It signifies 'holding' a conversation 'among' people, 'holding' someone's attention (entertain), or 'holding up' (supporting) a family.
Memory Tips
Focus on the root 'halten' (to hold). 'sich unterhalten' means to hold a chat. 'unterhalten' can mean to hold attention (entertain) or to hold up a family (support).