ab|halten
Translation
to hold (an event), to prevent, to deter, to keep off
Examples
Wir werden eine Konferenz abhalten.
We will hold a conference.
Der Lärm hielt mich vom Schlafen ab.
The noise kept me from sleeping.
Ein Zaun soll die Tiere abhalten.
A fence is supposed to keep the animals off.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to hold sth. (an event) The company will hold a meeting.
((sb.)) ((from sth.)) to prevent sb. from sth. Nothing can keep me from my goal.
Similar Words
Synonyms: veranstalten (to organize), verhindern (to prevent); Antonyms: zulassen (to allow), ermöglichen (to enable)
Etymology
From 'ab-' (off, away) and 'halten' (to hold). Literally 'to hold off' or 'to hold away'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'holding' someone 'away' from an activity to prevent them, or 'holding' an event.