verb
to keep
B1
Behalten is a strong, irregular German verb meaning 'to keep', 'retain' or 'preserve'. Auxiliary: haben. Present stem change: behält (er/sie/es). Preterite: behielt; participle: behalten. Non‑reflexive and inseparable. Used transitively (takes a direct object); no special preposition required. Common in contexts of possession or memory.
Examples
Ich behalte das Buch.
I'll keep the book.
Er behielt seine Meinung für sich.
He kept his opinion to himself.
Ich habe das Buch behalten.
I have kept the book.
Details
Mnemonics
Visualize holding an object close to your chest and not letting it go — you 'keep' it.
Sounds a bit like 'be halted' — imagine stopping and keeping something in place.
Notes
Often used transitively (keep something). In contexts like remembering, it can also mean 'to retain' (e.g., information). Note: Konjunktiv I simple past (Präteritum) forms are not used — those slots are marked not applicable.