anreichen

/ˈanˌʁaɪ̯çn̩/
to hand over, to pass

Kannst du mir das Salz anreichen?

Can you pass me the salt?


informal

To hand something to someone, typically by extending an arm or passing an object.

Sie reichte mir den Schlüssel an.

She handed me the key.

Commonly used in everyday contexts, often with objects like food, tools, or documents.

formal

To offer or present something to someone, often in a formal or ceremonial context.

Der Kellner reichte dem Gast die Speisekarte an.

The waiter handed the menu to the guest.

Can imply a sense of service or hospitality.

Collocations

jemandem etwas anreichento hand something to someonedas Salz anreichento pass the salt

Related Phrases

etwas anreichenphrase
to hand something over

Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'anreichen' when you want to emphasize the act of physically passing something to someone.

Gold Rule

Direct Object

'Anreichen' always requires a direct object (what is being handed) and an indirect object (to whom it is handed).

Word Origin

Derived from the prefix 'an-' (to) and the verb 'reichen' (to reach), indicating the action of extending or handing something to someone.

Usage Notes

Often used in casual and formal settings, but can also appear in legal or administrative contexts when referring to the formal transfer of documents or items.

Word Breakdown

an-
to
prefix
+
reichen
to reach, to hand
root
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