pflegen
Sie pflegt ihre Großmutter jeden Tag.
She cares for her grandmother every day.
to care for someone or something, especially in a nurturing or attentive way
Der Gärtner pflegt die Pflanzen im Park.
The gardener tends to the plants in the park.
Er pflegt seine Gesundheit durch Sport und gesunde Ernährung.
He maintains his health through exercise and healthy eating.
Commonly used for both physical care (e.g., of people, animals, plants) and maintenance (e.g., of objects, systems).
to maintain or repair something to keep it in good condition
Die Firma pflegt ihre Maschinen regelmäßig.
The company maintains its machines regularly.
Often used in technical or mechanical contexts.
to cultivate or foster a relationship, habit, or skill
Sie pflegt ihre Freundschaften über Jahre.
She cultivates her friendships over the years.
Can refer to emotional or social maintenance.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Prepositions with 'pflegen'
'Pflegen' is often used with the preposition 'für' (for) when referring to care for someone (e.g., 'für jemanden pflegen'). It can also take the preposition 'an' in some contexts (e.g., 'an einer Tradition pflegen' = to uphold a tradition).
Gold Rule
When to use 'pflegen' vs. 'sich kümmern'
'Pflegen' implies a more sustained, dedicated effort in care or maintenance, while 'sich kümmern' is more general and can imply casual attention. For example, 'Sie pflegt ihre Pflanzen' suggests regular, attentive care, whereas 'Sie kümmert sich um ihre Pflanzen' could imply occasional attention.
Word Origin
From Middle High German *pflegen*, from Old High German *pflegan*, from Proto-Germanic *pleganą* (to engage in, to busy oneself with). Related to English 'play' and 'pledge'.
Usage Notes
The verb 'pflegen' is highly versatile and context-dependent. It can imply both active care (e.g., nursing someone) and passive maintenance (e.g., preserving a tradition). In modern usage, it often carries a connotation of dedication or commitment.