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B1 noun #6,000 más común 10 min de lectura

Unterhalt

Top 6,000

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos Unterhalt en 30 segundos

Explicación Unterhalt in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to know the complex legal details of 'Unterhalt'. Instead, think of it as 'money for life'. It comes from the verb 'unterhalten', but here it means having enough money for food and a house. You might see it in very simple forms like 'Lebensunterhalt' (living costs). At this stage, just remember that it is a masculine word: 'der Unterhalt'. You won't use it often in basic conversations about hobbies or family, but you might see it on a form. Imagine a father giving money to his children so they can buy bread. That money is 'Unterhalt'. It is a big word for a simple idea: helping someone with money so they can live. Don't worry about the grammar too much yet, just recognize that it is about financial support. It is not about 'entertainment' (that is Unterhaltung), even though the words look similar. If you see 'Unterhalt' on a document, it usually means 'money you need to live'. For a beginner, the most important thing is to know it's about money and family. You can remember it by thinking 'Under-hold'—holding someone up from underneath so they don't fall financially.

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At the A2 level, you start to learn more about family structures and daily life. 'Unterhalt' becomes more relevant when talking about divorced parents or families who live apart. You should know that 'Unterhalt zahlen' means 'to pay maintenance'. You might hear a story about a man who works hard to pay 'Unterhalt' for his kids. At this level, you should also distinguish between 'Unterhalt' and 'Unterhaltung'. Remember: 'Unterhalt' is for bills and food; 'Unterhaltung' is for movies and fun. You can use simple sentences like: 'Der Vater zahlt Unterhalt.' (The father pays support). You might also encounter the word in the context of a 'Stipendium' (scholarship) or 'Bafög' (student financial aid in Germany), where the state helps with your 'Lebensunterhalt'. You are beginning to see that German uses long words to be very specific. 'Unterhalt' is a specific kind of money—it's not a gift, and it's not a salary; it's money for living. You should also learn the basic grammar: 'Ich brauche Geld für meinen Unterhalt' (I need money for my support). The focus is on the practical use of the word in family and financial contexts.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to understand and use 'Unterhalt' in its primary legal and social context. This is the level where you discuss social issues, family law, and personal responsibilities. You should know that 'Unterhalt' specifically refers to alimony and child support. You will encounter it in texts about divorce, separation, and the rights of children. You should be able to use verbs like 'leisten' (to provide) or 'verpflichtet sein' (to be obligated). For example: 'Er ist verpflichtet, Unterhalt zu leisten.' You should also understand the compound word 'Lebensunterhalt' in the context of jobs and careers. If you are applying for a residence permit in Germany, you will hear the phrase 'Sicherung des Lebensunterhalts' (securing one's livelihood). This means you have a job and don't need money from the government. At B1, you should also be aware of the 'Düsseldorfer Tabelle', the standard guideline for child support in Germany. You are moving beyond simple definitions to understanding how this word functions in German society. It's a word about obligations and the social safety net. You should be able to explain what 'Unterhalt' is in German: 'Es ist das Geld, das man nach einer Scheidung für die Kinder oder den Partner bezahlt.'

At the B2 level, your understanding of 'Unterhalt' should be quite sophisticated. You should be able to discuss the nuances of different types of support: 'Kindesunterhalt' (child support), 'Trennungsunterhalt' (separation maintenance), and 'nachehelicher Unterhalt' (post-marital alimony). You will read news articles where 'Unterhalt' is discussed in terms of political reforms or economic changes. For example, how inflation affects 'Unterhaltsansprüche' (maintenance claims). You should be comfortable with more complex grammatical structures, such as using the genitive: 'die Höhe des Unterhalts'. You also understand the technical side: 'Unterhalt' for a car or a property, meaning the running costs like insurance and taxes. You can distinguish between 'Unterhalt' and 'Instandhaltung' (physical maintenance). In a debate, you might discuss whether the 'Unterhaltsvorschuss' (state advance) is sufficient for single parents. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'unterhaltspflichtig' (obligated to pay support) and 'unterhaltsberechtigt' (entitled to receive support). This level requires you to use the word accurately in formal writing and professional contexts, understanding that it carries significant legal weight.

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At the C1 level, you use 'Unterhalt' with the precision of a native speaker. You understand the philosophical and historical roots of the word—how it evolved from a general term for 'sustenance' to a specific legal concept. You can read complex legal texts or court rulings (Urteile) regarding 'Unterhaltsrecht' (maintenance law). You understand the nuances of 'angemessener Unterhalt' and how it is calculated based on the 'Lebensstellung' (social standing) of the parties involved. You can use the word in abstract contexts, such as 'der geistige Unterhalt' (intellectual sustenance), though this is rare and poetic. You are familiar with the administrative jargon: 'Unterhaltstitel' (a legal document proving the right to support), 'Unterhaltsheranziehung' (the act of holding someone liable for support). Your ability to discuss the 'Düsseldorfer Tabelle' includes understanding its different 'Einkommensgruppen' (income groups). You can also use the word in economic discussions about the 'Unterhalt von Infrastruktur' (maintenance of infrastructure), where it refers to the ongoing financial resources needed to keep systems running. At this level, you don't just know what the word means; you know the entire legal and social system that surrounds it.

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At the C2 level, you have a near-native mastery of 'Unterhalt' in all its forms. You can appreciate the subtle differences in meaning between 'Unterhalt', 'Alimente', 'Pfründe', and 'Apanage' in historical or specialized contexts. You can engage in high-level academic or legal discussions about the reform of 'Unterhaltsrecht' in the European Union. You understand the fiscal implications of 'Unterhaltszahlungen' as 'Sonderausgaben' (special expenses) in German tax law (Einkommensteuergesetz). You can interpret literature where 'Unterhalt' might be used metaphorically to describe the emotional or spiritual support one person provides another. Your use of the word is flawless, including its rare plural forms in technical legal discussions about multiple distinct maintenance obligations. You can analyze how the concept of 'Unterhalt' reflects German cultural values regarding the family unit and the state's role as a secondary provider. You are capable of drafting formal legal letters or academic essays that use 'Unterhalt' and its derivatives (e.g., 'Unterhaltsverwirkung'—the forfeiture of maintenance rights) with absolute accuracy and appropriate register.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

Unterhalt en 30 segundos

Unterhalt is the German word for financial maintenance, alimony, or child support, essential for B1 learners discussing family law and personal finances.
It primarily refers to the legal duty to provide for a dependent's basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare after a separation.
The term can also describe the 'upkeep' or 'running costs' of physical objects like cars or houses, though this is less common.
Do not confuse it with 'Unterhaltung' (entertainment); 'Unterhalt' is a serious financial obligation, while 'Unterhaltung' is for fun or conversation.

The German noun Unterhalt is a multifaceted term that primarily refers to the financial resources required to maintain a person's standard of living, specifically in the context of legal obligations such as alimony or child support. In a broader sense, it encompasses the concept of 'maintenance' or 'upkeep' for both humans and, occasionally, physical objects or systems. When you hear this word in a German-speaking environment, it is most frequently associated with family law and the financial aftermath of a separation or divorce. It represents the legal duty of one individual to provide for the material needs of another, typically a former spouse or a child. This includes costs for housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. The word is deeply rooted in the German social and legal fabric, governed by the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), which outlines exactly who is entitled to receive it and who is obligated to pay.

Legal Context: In German law, Unterhalt is not just a moral suggestion but a strictly enforceable obligation. The 'Düsseldorfer Tabelle' is often used as a guideline to calculate the specific amounts for child support based on the income of the payer.

Beyond the courtroom, Unterhalt can also refer to the 'Lebensunterhalt'—the general cost of living. If someone says they 'earn their Unterhalt,' they mean they are making a living. However, in modern daily German, if you use the word without a prefix, people will almost instinctively think of child support or alimony. This nuance is vital for learners to grasp because using it in the wrong context might imply a legal domestic situation you didn't intend to reference.

Nach der Scheidung muss er monatlich Unterhalt für seine zwei Kinder an die Ex-Frau überweisen.

It is also worth noting that the word is masculine (der Unterhalt) and rarely appears in its plural form (die Unterhalte), as the concept is usually treated as an abstract singular noun representing a continuous flow of support. In technical or architectural contexts, you might occasionally see it referring to the upkeep of a building, though Instandhaltung is more common there. For a B1 learner, the focus should remain on the human element: the financial bridge that supports life's necessities when a family unit changes. Understanding 'Unterhalt' requires an appreciation of the German emphasis on social responsibility and legal precision. It is a word that carries weight, often appearing in news reports about social reform or in personal discussions about financial planning. When discussing your career, you might say you are working for your 'Lebensunterhalt' (livelihood), which adds a prefix to make the meaning more general and less legally charged than the standalone 'Unterhalt'.

Using Unterhalt correctly involves understanding its typical collocations and the verbs it frequently pairs with. The most common verb associated with this noun is zahlen (to pay). One 'pays maintenance' (Unterhalt zahlen). Conversely, the recipient 'receives maintenance' (Unterhalt beziehen or Unterhalt bekommen). In a legal dispute, one might 'sue for maintenance' (Unterhalt einklagen) or 'claim maintenance' (Unterhalt beanspruchen).

Common Verb Pairings: Unterhalt leisten (to provide/perform maintenance), Unterhalt kürzen (to reduce maintenance), Unterhalt verweigern (to refuse maintenance).

When building sentences, the preposition für (for) is almost always used to specify the beneficiary. For example, 'Unterhalt für das Kind' (child support) or 'Unterhalt für den Ehegatten' (spousal support). You can also use the genitive case in more formal writing: 'der Unterhalt des Kindes'.

Das Gericht hat entschieden, dass der Vater zur Zahlung von Unterhalt verpflichtet ist.

Another important aspect is the 'angemessene Unterhalt' (appropriate or reasonable maintenance), a term often used in legal rulings to describe a sum that fits the previous standard of living. For learners, it is helpful to practice the sentence structure: [Subject] + [Verb] + [Unterhalt] + [Prepositional Phrase]. For instance: 'Sie zahlt keinen Unterhalt für ihren Ex-Mann.' (She does not pay alimony to her ex-husband). In more complex sentences, you might see the word combined with others to form compound nouns, which is a hallmark of the German language. Words like Unterhaltspflicht (the duty to pay maintenance) or Unterhaltsvorschuss (an advance on maintenance payments from the state) are common in administrative German. If you are describing the cost of maintaining a car or a house, the phrasing changes slightly: 'Die Kosten für den Unterhalt des Hauses sind gestiegen' (The costs for the upkeep of the house have risen). Here, 'Unterhalt' acts as a synonym for 'maintenance' in a physical sense, though as mentioned, 'Instandhaltung' is often preferred for property. To sound like a native speaker, use 'Unterhalt' when referring to the ongoing, periodic nature of the payments. It is not a one-time settlement (which would be an Abfindung), but a recurring commitment. This continuous nature is what links it to its verbal root unterhalten, which originally meant 'to keep something going' or 'to hold something up from below' (literally: under-hold).

In the real world, Unterhalt is a word that pops up in several distinct spheres of German life. The first and most prominent is the legal and bureaucratic sphere. If you ever find yourself at a Jugendamt (Youth Welfare Office) or a Familiengericht (Family Court) in Germany, the word will be used constantly. It is the central term in discussions regarding the rights of children following a parental split. You will hear it in news broadcasts discussing changes to social welfare laws or the 'Düsseldorfer Tabelle', which is updated regularly to reflect inflation and changing costs of living.

Media and News: Headline: 'Regierung plant Reform beim Kindesunterhalt' (Government plans reform for child support). You will hear journalists analyze how these payments impact the 'Existenzminimum' (subsistence level).

Secondly, you will hear it in personal, albeit often stressful, private conversations. Friends might discuss their financial burdens after a divorce: 'Ich kann mir den Urlaub nicht leisten, weil ich so viel Unterhalt zahlen muss.' (I can't afford the vacation because I have to pay so much alimony/child support). It carries a connotation of a fixed, unavoidable monthly expense.

'Hast du diesen Monat den Unterhalt schon überwiesen?' fragte sie am Telefon.

Thirdly, in a more formal or academic context, you will encounter the term Lebensunterhalt. This is used in job applications, immigration documents, and insurance forms. For instance, to get a visa for Germany, you often have to prove that you can 'secure your own Unterhalt' (den Lebensunterhalt sichern), meaning you have enough money to live without state help. Finally, you might hear it in the automotive or real estate industry, though less frequently than the primary legal meaning. A car salesman might talk about the 'Unterhalt' of a vehicle, referring to the insurance, taxes, and fuel costs required to keep it running. In this context, it translates more to 'running costs' or 'operating costs'. However, if you are a student or a learner, 90% of the time you encounter this word, it will be about the money paid to support a person. It is a word of responsibility, obligation, and survival.

For English speakers learning German, the most frequent pitfall is the confusion between Unterhalt and Unterhaltung. Both words are nouns derived from the verb unterhalten, but they have branched off into completely different semantic territories. Unterhalt refers to financial maintenance and support, while Unterhaltung refers to entertainment (like a movie or a party) or a conversation. Telling someone you are paying for 'Unterhaltung' for your children implies you are buying them toys or taking them to the cinema, whereas saying you pay 'Unterhalt' means you are fulfilling your legal child support obligations.

The 'Entertainment' Trap: Mistake: 'Ich zahle Unterhaltung für meine Kinder.' (I pay entertainment for my children.) Correct: 'Ich zahle Unterhalt für meine Kinder.' (I pay child support.)

Another common error involves the gender and pluralization. Unterhalt is masculine (der). Learners often try to make it feminine because many abstract German nouns ending in -ung or -heit are feminine, but since this noun is derived directly from the verb stem without those suffixes, it follows a different pattern. Furthermore, many learners try to pluralize it as 'Unterhalte' when talking about multiple types of support (e.g., for two different children). While grammatically possible, it sounds very unnatural. Native speakers would use the singular or specify 'Unterhaltszahlungen' (maintenance payments).

Falsch: Die Unterhalte sind teuer. Richtig: Die Unterhaltszahlungen sind hoch.

Prepositional errors are also frequent. English speakers might want to say 'Unterhalt *zu* jemanden' (support *to* someone) based on the English 'pay support to'. In German, the standard is 'Unterhalt *für* jemanden' (support *for* someone) or simply using the dative object with the verb 'zahlen', though 'für' is much more common with the noun itself. Finally, don't confuse Unterhalt with Unterstützung. While both mean 'support', Unterstützung is a very broad term that can mean emotional support, help with a task, or general financial aid. Unterhalt is specifically the regular, necessary financial provision for life's basic needs. If you help a friend move apartments, that is Unterstützung, not Unterhalt.

To truly master Unterhalt, you should understand how it compares to its synonyms and related terms. The most direct synonym in a legal sense is Alimente. However, Alimente is slightly more old-fashioned or specifically used in Austrian and Swiss German. In Germany, it's often used colloquially or in a slightly derogatory way when talking about child support.

Unterhalt vs. Alimente: Unterhalt is the formal, legal term for all types of maintenance. Alimente specifically refers to child support and is more common in regional dialects.

Another related term is Lebensunterhalt. As discussed, this is the 'livelihood' or 'living'. It is broader and doesn't necessarily imply a legal obligation from one person to another. You 'earn your Lebensunterhalt' through your job.

Er bestreitet seinen Lebensunterhalt durch künstlerische Arbeit.

If you are talking about the maintenance of a building or a machine, the better word is Instandhaltung (maintenance/repair) or Wartung (servicing). While 'Unterhalt' can be used for the 'running costs' of a house, 'Instandhaltung' specifically refers to keeping it in good physical condition. There is also Versorgung, which means 'provision' or 'supply'. This is used in 'Altersversorgung' (pension/old-age provision). While 'Unterhalt' is usually for the present, 'Versorgung' often has a long-term or future-oriented connotation. Lastly, Beistand means 'assistance' or 'support' in a more general, often legal or emotional sense. You might have a 'Reistandsbeistand' (legal counsel), but you wouldn't call your monthly child support payment 'Beistand'. Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate the complex landscape of German financial and legal terminology. When in doubt, use 'Unterhalt' for family law situations and 'Lebensunterhalt' for general living expenses.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die Unterhaltspflicht gegenüber den minderjährigen Kindern ist vorrangig zu behandeln."

Neutral

"Er überweist den Unterhalt immer am ersten des Monats."

Informal

"Ich muss schon wieder Kohle für den Unterhalt abdrücken."

Child friendly

"Papa gibt Geld, damit wir Essen und Kleidung kaufen können."

Jerga

"Meine Alimente fressen mein ganzes Gehalt auf."

Dato curioso

The verb 'unterhalten' split into two distinct meanings: 'to support financially' and 'to entertain'. This is because 'keeping someone in a state of engagement' evolved into 'entertainment', while 'keeping someone in a state of survival' became 'maintenance'.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ˈʊntɐhalt/

US /ˈʊntərˌhɑlt/

Stress is on the first syllable: UN-ter-halt.

Rima con

Aufenthalt Inhalt Wald bald kalt Gestalt Gewalt halt

Errores comunes

Stressing the second syllable (un-ter-HALT) is a common mistake; that sounds more like the verb.
Pronouncing the 'h' too softly; it should be clearly audible.
Pronouncing the final 't' like a 'd'.
Confusing the vowel in 'halt' with the English 'halt' (saw-sound); in German, it's a short 'ah' like in 'hot' (but shorter).
Mumbling the 'un'—it should be a crisp, short 'u'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts, but legal contexts can be complex.

Escritura 4/5

Requires knowledge of prepositions (für) and correct cases.

Expresión oral 3/5

Common word, but easy to confuse with 'Unterhaltung'.

Escucha 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but context is key to distinguish meaning.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

Geld zahlen Familie Kind Leben

Aprende después

Scheidung Pflicht Anspruch Gericht Einkommen

Avanzado

Düsseldorfer Tabelle Existenzminimum Leistungsfähigkeit Verwirkung Naturalunterhalt

Gramática que debes saber

Nouns derived from verbs without suffixes are usually masculine.

halten -> der Halt, unterhalten -> der Unterhalt

The preposition 'für' always takes the accusative case.

Unterhalt für den (masc. acc.) Sohn.

Compound nouns take the gender of the last word.

Das Kind + der Unterhalt = der Kindesunterhalt.

The genitive case is used to show possession or relationship with nouns.

Die Höhe des Unterhalts (The amount of the support).

Substantivized adjectives follow adjective declension.

Der Unterhaltspflichtige (The one obligated to pay).

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Ejemplos por nivel

Der Vater gibt Geld für den Unterhalt.

The father gives money for the support.

Focus on the masculine accusative 'den Unterhalt'.

Ich brauche Unterhalt zum Leben.

I need support to live.

Simple use of the noun with a prepositional phrase.

Was kostet der Unterhalt?

How much does the maintenance cost?

Using 'der Unterhalt' as the subject.

Er zahlt jeden Monat Unterhalt.

He pays support every month.

Direct object in the accusative (masculine ending is zero for nouns).

Mein Unterhalt ist teuer.

My support/maintenance is expensive.

Possessive pronoun 'mein' with the noun.

Sie bekommt Unterhalt für das Baby.

She gets support for the baby.

Using 'für' + accusative.

Geld für Unterhalt ist wichtig.

Money for support is important.

General statement about the noun.

Hast du genug Unterhalt?

Do you have enough support?

Question structure with 'haben'.

Nach der Trennung zahlt er Unterhalt für die Kinder.

After the separation, he pays support for the children.

Temporal phrase 'Nach der Trennung'.

Der Unterhalt für ein Auto ist oft sehr hoch.

The maintenance for a car is often very high.

Using 'Unterhalt' for an object.

Sie arbeitet für ihren eigenen Lebensunterhalt.

She works for her own livelihood.

Introduction of the compound 'Lebensunterhalt'.

Wie viel Unterhalt muss man zahlen?

How much support does one have to pay?

Modal verb 'müssen'.

Er vergisst nie, den Unterhalt zu überweisen.

He never forgets to transfer the support.

Infinitive construction with 'zu'.

Das Gesetz regelt den Unterhalt in Deutschland.

The law regulates support in Germany.

Verb 'regeln' (to regulate).

Ohne Unterhalt kann sie die Miete nicht bezahlen.

Without support, she cannot pay the rent.

Preposition 'ohne' + accusative.

Mein Ex-Mann schickt den Unterhalt pünktlich.

My ex-husband sends the support on time.

Adverb 'pünktlich'.

Das Jugendamt hilft bei Fragen zum Unterhalt.

The Youth Welfare Office helps with questions about support.

Prepositional phrase 'bei Fragen zu'.

Die Düsseldorfer Tabelle bestimmt die Höhe des Unterhalts.

The Dusseldorf Table determines the amount of support.

Genitive case 'des Unterhalts'.

Er hat einen Anspruch auf monatlichen Unterhalt.

He has a claim to monthly support.

Noun-verb connection 'Anspruch haben auf'.

Wir müssen über den Unterhalt für das Haus sprechen.

We need to talk about the upkeep for the house.

Preposition 'über' + accusative.

Sie kann ihren Lebensunterhalt nicht mehr allein bestreiten.

She can no longer cover her living expenses on her own.

Verb 'bestreiten' (to cover/pay for).

Der Unterhalt wurde gerichtlich festgelegt.

The support was determined by the court.

Passive voice 'wurde festgelegt'.

Zahlst du auch Unterhalt für deine Ex-Frau?

Do you also pay alimony to your ex-wife?

Question with 'auch' and 'für'.

Die Kosten für den Unterhalt steigen jedes Jahr.

The costs for maintenance rise every year.

Plural subject 'Die Kosten'.

Der Unterhaltspflichtige muss über sein Einkommen Auskunft geben.

The person obligated to pay support must provide information about their income.

Substantivized adjective 'der Unterhaltspflichtige'.

Bei Arbeitslosigkeit kann der Unterhalt reduziert werden.

In the event of unemployment, the support can be reduced.

Passive with modal 'kann reduziert werden'.

Der nacheheliche Unterhalt ist oft ein Streitthema.

Post-marital alimony is often a subject of dispute.

Compound adjective 'nachehelich'.

Die Firma übernimmt den Unterhalt der gesamten IT-Infrastruktur.

The company takes over the maintenance of the entire IT infrastructure.

Genitive 'der IT-Infrastruktur'.

Er klagt auf Erhöhung des Unterhalts.

He is suing for an increase in support.

Verb 'klagen auf'.

Unterhalt ist eine gesetzliche Verpflichtung, kein freiwilliges Geschenk.

Support is a legal obligation, not a voluntary gift.

Apposition and contrast.

Trotz der Scheidung bleibt der Unterhalt für die Kinder bestehen.

Despite the divorce, the support for the children remains.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

Man muss die Kosten für den laufenden Unterhalt einplanen.

One must budget for the ongoing maintenance costs.

Adjective 'laufend' (ongoing).

Die Verwirkung des Anspruchs auf Unterhalt tritt bei schwerem Fehlverhalten ein.

The forfeiture of the claim to support occurs in cases of serious misconduct.

Nominal style with 'Verwirkung'.

Es gibt eine gesteigerte Unterhaltspflicht gegenüber minderjährigen Kindern.

There is an increased maintenance obligation towards minor children.

Adjective 'gesteigert' (increased/enhanced).

Der Unterhalt soll die bisherige Lebensstellung des Berechtigten sichern.

The support is intended to secure the previous social standing of the entitled person.

Term 'Lebensstellung'.

In diesem Fall wird der Unterhalt als Pauschalbetrag gezahlt.

In this case, the maintenance is paid as a lump sum.

Term 'Pauschalbetrag'.

Die steuerliche Absetzbarkeit von Unterhalt ist an Bedingungen geknüpft.

The tax deductibility of support is tied to certain conditions.

Passive construction 'ist geknüpft an'.

Der Staat gewährt Unterhaltsvorschuss, wenn der Vater nicht zahlt.

The state grants a maintenance advance if the father does not pay.

Term 'Unterhaltsvorschuss'.

Unterhalt umfasst den gesamten Lebensbedarf einer Person.

Support encompasses a person's entire life needs.

Verb 'umfassen' (to encompass).

Die Angemessenheit des Unterhalts wird individuell geprüft.

The appropriateness of the support is reviewed individually.

Noun 'Angemessenheit'.

Das Unterhaltsrecht unterliegt einem stetigen gesellschaftlichen Wandel.

Maintenance law is subject to constant social change.

Verb 'unterliegen' + dative.

Die Leistungsfähigkeit des Schuldners ist die Grenze des Unterhalts.

The debtor's ability to pay is the limit of the support.

Term 'Leistungsfähigkeit'.

Ein Verzicht auf künftigen Kindesunterhalt ist rechtlich unwirksam.

A waiver of future child support is legally ineffective.

Term 'unwirksam' (ineffective/void).

Der Unterhalt dient nicht der Bereicherung, sondern der Bedarfsdeckung.

Support does not serve enrichment, but the meeting of needs.

Contrast using 'nicht... sondern'.

Die Geltendmachung von Unterhaltsansprüchen erfordert oft juristischen Beistand.

The assertion of maintenance claims often requires legal assistance.

Nominalization 'Geltendmachung'.

Es besteht eine Solidargemeinschaft, die den Unterhalt begründet.

There is a community of solidarity that justifies the support.

Complex relative clause.

Die Differenzierung zwischen Barunterhalt und Naturalunterhalt ist essenziell.

The differentiation between cash support and in-kind support is essential.

Legal terms 'Barunterhalt' and 'Naturalunterhalt'.

Unterhaltspflichten können auch über den Tod hinaus bestehen.

Maintenance obligations can also exist beyond death.

Prepositional phrase 'über den Tod hinaus'.

Colocaciones comunes

Unterhalt zahlen

Unterhalt beziehen

angemessener Unterhalt

monatlicher Unterhalt

Unterhalt einklagen

laufender Unterhalt

Unterhalt leisten

Unterhalt kürzen

Unterhalt für Kinder

Unterhalt verweigern

Frases Comunes

für den Unterhalt aufkommen

— To be responsible for and pay the costs of maintenance. It implies a sense of duty.

Wer kommt für den Unterhalt der Kinder auf?

seinen Unterhalt verdienen

— To earn enough money to support oneself. Usually used with 'Lebensunterhalt'.

Er verdient seinen Unterhalt als Kellner.

Anspruch auf Unterhalt

— The legal right to receive maintenance payments.

Nach zehn Jahren Ehe hat sie Anspruch auf Unterhalt.

Unterhalt gewähren

— To grant or provide support, often used in official or legal contexts.

Der Staat gewährt unter bestimmten Bedingungen Unterhalt.

den Unterhalt sichern

— To ensure that there is enough money for living expenses.

Ein fester Job sichert den Unterhalt der Familie.

Unterhalt schulden

— To owe maintenance payments that have not yet been paid.

Er schuldet seiner Ex-Frau noch viel Unterhalt.

Unterhalt berechnen

— To calculate the amount of maintenance based on income and needs.

Der Anwalt wird den Unterhalt genau berechnen.

Unterhalt einstellen

— To stop paying maintenance, usually because the obligation has ended.

Sobald das Kind arbeitet, kann man den Unterhalt einstellen.

Unterhalt fordern

— To demand maintenance payments from someone.

Sie fordert mehr Unterhalt wegen der Inflation.

Unterhalt regeln

— To arrange or settle the maintenance issues, often through a contract.

Wir haben den Unterhalt außergerichtlich geregelt.

Se confunde a menudo con

Unterhalt vs Unterhaltung

Means 'entertainment' or 'conversation'. This is the #1 mistake learners make.

Unterhalt vs Instandhaltung

Refers to physical repairs and keeping something in good condition, whereas 'Unterhalt' is the ongoing cost.

Unterhalt vs Unterstützung

A general word for support (emotional or financial), while 'Unterhalt' is a specific, regular legal obligation.

Modismos y expresiones

"jemandem den Unterhalt entziehen"

— To stop supporting someone financially, often as a punishment or due to a dispute.

Nach dem Streit entzog der Vater seinem Sohn den Unterhalt.

Formal

"auf jemandes Unterhalt angewiesen sein"

— To be dependent on someone else's financial support for survival.

Während des Studiums war sie auf den Unterhalt ihrer Eltern angewiesen.

Neutral

"den Lebensunterhalt bestreiten"

— To pay for one's living expenses. A very common professional phrase.

Es ist schwer, den Lebensunterhalt nur mit Kunst zu bestreiten.

Neutral/Formal

"für jemandes Unterhalt sorgen"

— To take care of someone's financial needs.

Er sorgt allein für den Unterhalt der ganzen Verwandtschaft.

Neutral

"den Unterhalt einklagen"

— To take legal action to force someone to pay maintenance.

Sie musste den Unterhalt vor Gericht einklagen.

Formal/Legal

"Unterhalt in Naturalien"

— Providing support through goods (food, housing) instead of cash.

Er leistet seinen Unterhalt in Naturalien, indem er die Miete übernimmt.

Formal/Legal

"Unterhaltspflicht verletzen"

— To fail to meet one's legal obligation to pay support.

Wer seine Unterhaltspflicht verletzt, macht sich strafbar.

Formal/Legal

"angemessener Lebensunterhalt"

— A standard of living that is considered appropriate for a person's situation.

Jeder Mensch hat ein Recht auf einen angemessenen Lebensunterhalt.

Formal/Political

"Unterhalt ausgleichen"

— To balance or settle maintenance claims between two parties.

Die Anwälte versuchen, den Unterhalt gütlich auszugleichen.

Formal

"den Unterhalt kürzen"

— To reduce the amount of money paid for support.

Wegen geringeren Einkommens wurde der Unterhalt gekürzt.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

Unterhalt vs Unterhaltung

They look and sound very similar and share the same root verb.

Unterhalt is financial support; Unterhaltung is fun or talking.

Er zahlt Unterhalt (money), aber die Unterhaltung (movie) war langweilig.

Unterhalt vs Alimente

Both mean child support.

Alimente is more colloquial or regional (Austria/Switzerland); Unterhalt is the official legal term in Germany.

Offiziell heißt es Unterhalt, aber viele sagen Alimente.

Unterhalt vs Wartung

Both can mean maintenance.

Wartung is technical servicing (like an oil change); Unterhalt is the financial cost of keeping the thing running.

Die Wartung des Flugzeugs ist Teil des Unterhalts.

Unterhalt vs Beistand

Both involve helping someone.

Beistand is usually legal counsel or emotional help; Unterhalt is strictly money for living.

Sie braucht rechtlichen Beistand, um den Unterhalt zu bekommen.

Unterhalt vs Abfindung

Both involve money after a split.

Abfindung is a one-time lump sum payment; Unterhalt is a recurring monthly payment.

Er zahlte eine Abfindung, um den monatlichen Unterhalt zu vermeiden.

Patrones de oraciones

[Person] zahlt Unterhalt.

Der Mann zahlt Unterhalt.

[Person] braucht Geld für den Unterhalt.

Sie braucht Geld für den Unterhalt.

[Person] ist verpflichtet, Unterhalt für [Person] zu leisten.

Er ist verpflichtet, Unterhalt für seine Tochter zu leisten.

Die Höhe des Unterhalts richtet sich nach [Faktor].

Die Höhe des Unterhalts richtet sich nach dem Einkommen.

Der Anspruch auf Unterhalt kann unter bestimmten Umständen verwirken.

Der Anspruch auf Unterhalt kann bei neuem Partner verwirken.

Wie viel kostet der Unterhalt für [Objekt]?

Wie viel kostet der Unterhalt für das Auto?

Es besteht eine gesetzliche Unterhaltspflicht.

Es besteht eine gesetzliche Unterhaltspflicht gegenüber den Eltern.

Die Differenzierung zwischen Bar- und Naturalunterhalt ist im BGB verankert.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in legal, social, and financial contexts.

Errores comunes

Ich zahle Unterhaltung für mein Kind. → Ich zahle Unterhalt für mein Kind.
Unterhaltung means entertainment. Unless you are paying for the child to watch a movie, use Unterhalt for financial support.
Die Unterhalt ist teuer. → Der Unterhalt ist teuer.
Unterhalt is masculine, so it requires the article 'der' in the nominative case.
Er zahlt Unterhalt zu seiner Ex-Frau. → Er zahlt Unterhalt für seine Ex-Frau.
In German, we use 'für' (for) to indicate the recipient of the maintenance, not 'zu'.
Ich brauche Geld für meine Unterhalt. → Ich brauche Geld für meinen Unterhalt.
Because 'für' takes the accusative and Unterhalt is masculine, the possessive pronoun must be 'meinen'.
Die Unterhalte sind hoch. → Die Unterhaltszahlungen sind hoch.
Unterhalt is rarely used in the plural. To talk about multiple payments or types, use Unterhaltszahlungen.

Consejos

Masculine Noun

Always remember that Unterhalt is masculine. In the accusative case, which is common with verbs like 'zahlen' or 'leisten', use 'den Unterhalt'. Example: 'Er zahlt den Unterhalt.'

Prefixes Matter

Use 'Lebensunterhalt' for livelihood and 'Instandhaltung' for physical maintenance. Using just 'Unterhalt' usually points toward legal family support.

Düsseldorfer Tabelle

If you are living in Germany, familiarize yourself with this term. It is the standard for calculating child support and is a frequent topic in news and legal discussions.

Avoid the Entertainment Trap

Never use 'Unterhaltung' when you mean child support. It sounds very confusing to a native speaker and changes the meaning from a serious obligation to a fun activity.

The 'für' Preposition

When specifying who the support is for, always use 'für' + Accusative. Example: 'Unterhalt für meine Kinder'. It is the most natural way to express the beneficiary.

Context Clues

If you hear words like 'Scheidung' (divorce) or 'Anwalt' (lawyer), 'Unterhalt' definitely means maintenance. If you hear 'Kino' or 'Musik', you probably heard 'Unterhaltung'.

Unterhaltspflicht

This is a very important compound word. It means 'maintenance obligation'. If you have this, you are legally required to pay.

Recurring Payments

Unterhalt implies a regular, usually monthly, payment. It is not a one-time gift. Use it when describing ongoing financial commitments.

Under-Hold

Think of the literal translation: 'under-hold'. You are holding someone's life up from underneath. This visual helps remember both the word and its meaning.

Livelihood in CVs

In professional contexts or visa applications, use 'Sicherung des Lebensunterhalts' to describe having a stable income.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Under-Hold'. You are holding someone up from underneath with your money so they don't sink into poverty.

Asociación visual

Imagine a pair of hands holding up a small house or a child's piggy bank from below. The hands represent the 'Unterhalt'.

Word Web

Geld Kinder Scheidung Gesetz Zahlen Essen Wohnung Pflicht

Desafío

Write three sentences about a fictional divorce case using 'Unterhalt', 'zahlen', and 'Düsseldorfer Tabelle'.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Middle High German word 'underhalten', which meant 'to support' or 'to keep up'.

Significado original: Literally 'to hold from below' (unter + halten), meaning to prevent something from falling or failing.

Germanic, related to English 'under' and 'hold'.

Contexto cultural

Be careful when discussing Unterhalt in social settings; it is often a source of stress, legal battles, and emotional pain for divorced parents.

In English, we distinguish between 'child support' and 'alimony'. In German, 'Unterhalt' covers both, though you can specify 'Kindesunterhalt' or 'Ehegattenunterhalt'.

The Düsseldorfer Tabelle (The most famous guideline for calculating Unterhalt in Germany). Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - The law book that defines Unterhalt. Unterhaltssicherunggesetz (USG) - Law regarding support for soldiers' families.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Divorce and Separation

Unterhalt für die Kinder
Ehegattenunterhalt
Trennungsjahr
Unterhalt festlegen

Job and Livelihood

Lebensunterhalt verdienen
Sicherung des Lebensunterhalts
Kosten für den Unterhalt
den Unterhalt bestreiten

Car and Home Maintenance

Unterhalt des Autos
Unterhaltskosten
laufender Unterhalt
Instandhaltung

Legal Disputes

Unterhalt einklagen
Unterhaltspflicht verletzen
Unterhaltstitel
Unterhaltsvorschuss

Social Welfare

Existenzminimum
Sozialhilfe
Bedarfsgemeinschaft
Unterstützung

Inicios de conversación

"Wusstest du, dass der Unterhalt in Deutschland nach einer speziellen Tabelle berechnet wird?"

"Wie hoch ist eigentlich der durchschnittliche Unterhalt für ein Kind in deinem Land?"

"Findest du es fair, dass man auch nach der Scheidung für den Ex-Partner Unterhalt zahlen muss?"

"Hast du schon mal ausgerechnet, wie viel der Unterhalt für ein eigenes Auto im Monat kostet?"

"Ist es in deiner Kultur üblich, dass erwachsene Kinder Unterhalt für ihre Eltern zahlen?"

Temas para diario

Schreibe über die finanzielle Verantwortung in einer Familie. Wer sollte für den Unterhalt aufkommen?

Reflektiere über die Kosten des Lebens (Lebensunterhalt). Was sind die teuersten Posten in deinem Budget?

Stell dir vor, du bist ein Richter. Wie würdest du den Unterhalt in einem schwierigen Fall festlegen?

Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile von staatlichem Unterhaltsvorschuss für Alleinerziehende.

Beschreibe den Unterhalt eines alten Hauses. Welche Reparaturen und Kosten fallen regelmäßig an?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

The Düsseldorfer Tabelle is a guideline used by German courts to determine the amount of child support (Unterhalt) based on the net income of the parent and the age of the child. It is updated regularly to reflect economic changes.

No, it also includes 'Ehegattenunterhalt' (alimony for an ex-spouse) and 'Elternunterhalt' (support for elderly parents if they cannot afford care). It can even refer to the upkeep of property, though that's less common.

Unterhalt is often the legal obligation to pay someone else. Lebensunterhalt is the general concept of 'making a living' or the cost of your own life. You 'earn' your Lebensunterhalt but 'pay' Unterhalt.

Yes, under certain conditions, maintenance payments to an ex-spouse can be deducted as 'Sonderausgaben' (special expenses) up to a certain limit, while child support is usually not deductible but handled through the 'Kindergeld' system.

If a parent fails to pay, the state can provide an 'Unterhaltsvorschuss' (advance) to the other parent and then pursue the debtor to recover the money. Continued refusal can lead to legal penalties or wage garnishment.

Yes, this is called 'Naturalunterhalt'. It refers to providing housing, food, and care directly, which is what the parent who lives with the child usually does.

Generally until the child finishes their first professional education (university or apprenticeship), even if they are over 18. There is no fixed age limit, only a goal-oriented one.

If the recipient of 'Ehegattenunterhalt' remarries, the claim usually ends. However, child support is not affected by the parents' remarriage, as the obligation to the child remains.

Yes, it is always 'der Unterhalt'. Even in compounds like 'Kindesunterhalt', the gender of the last word (Unterhalt) determines the gender of the whole word.

Historically, 'unterhalten' meant to sustain. 'Unterhalt' kept the meaning of physical/financial sustainment, while 'Unterhaltung' took on the meaning of 'sustaining interest', which led to 'conversation' and 'entertainment'.

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