A2 Informal Action
„Warum hältst du an?"
Why are you stopping?
What does „Warum hältst du an?" mean in German?
„Warum hältst du an?" means "Why are you stopping?." Literally: "Why do you hold on?."
Literal Translation
"Why do you hold on?"
Warum Why
hältst do
du you
an hold
English Equivalent
"Why are you stopping?"
This English idiom conveys the same meaning as the German expression.
Grammar Notes
Separable verb 'anhalten'
When is this idiom used?
Informal
This expression is used in informal, casual German conversation among friends and family.
Related Words
Quick Quiz — Test Yourself
Test your knowledge of Warum hältst du an?
Related Idioms
„Er steckte es zu sich."
He put it in his pocket.
„Wer A sagt, muß auch B sagen."
In for a penny, in for a pound.
„Er kommt ab und zu."
He comes now and then.
„Er ist das Abbild (von) seiner Mutter."
He is the very image of his mother.
„Ich kann heute nicht abkommen."
I can't get away (off) today.
„Die Uhr ist abgelaufen."
The clock has run down.
