leisten
Translation
to achieve, to perform, to afford
Examples
Du leistest gute Arbeit.
You are doing a good job.
Du leistest dir ein neues Auto.
You are affording yourself a new car.
Grammar Patterns
sich3 et4 leisten to afford sth. I can't afford that.
et4 leisten to achieve/perform sth. He has achieved great things.
Similar Words
Synonyms: schaffen (to manage), vollbringen (to accomplish), sich gönnen (to treat oneself to)
Etymology
From Old High German 'leistan' (to follow, perform). Related to the English word 'last' (to endure).
Memory Tips
To get a 'Leistung' (achievement), you have to 'leisten' (perform) something. If you can afford something, you can 'leisten' it for yourself.