How to Say ‘Just don't’ in German
Halte nur... nicht fest
hahl-teh noor nikht fest
[hahl-teh noor nikht fest]
💬 Usage Tip: festhalten splits in real sentences: halte stays near the subject, and fest moves to the end. Same pattern: Ich rufe dich an from anrufen.
Phrase Breakdown
Halte
[hahl-teh]
Hold
To grasp or support something securely with your hands.
Halte nur kurz, nicht fest.
Just hold briefly, not tight.
nur
[noor]
Only
Referring to something being the sole case or exception.
Halte nur kurz, nicht fest.
Just hold briefly, not tight.
nicht
[nikht]
Not
Used to negate or indicate the opposite of an action or state.
Halte nur kurz, nicht fest.
Just hold briefly, not tight.
fest
[fest]
Tight
Held or fastened strongly and securely.
Halte nur kurz, nicht fest.
Just hold briefly, not tight.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”
Emma L., 27, UX Researcher
“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”
Marcus J., 40, Engineer
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer