nachzuhaken

Nachzuhaken is a German verb phrase meaning to follow up or to probe further, especially to obtain additional information after an initial question or statement. The infinitive with zu is used in clauses such as "Es ist wichtig, nachzuhaken" or "Wir müssen nachhaken, um die Fakten zu klären." The verb is separable in finite forms (for example, ich hake nach; wir haken nach); the perfect is formed with haben and the past participle nachgehakt (Ich habe nachgehakt).

Etymology and sense: The prefix nach- signals repetition or continuation, while haken metaphorically means to hook or seize information. Together, nachzuhaken conveys the act of pursuing details that were not fully disclosed or clarified earlier.

Usage: Nachzuhaken is common in journalism, investigative work, business meetings, and negotiations. It denotes a professional, persistent pursuit of clarification while maintaining civility. It can range from routine clarification to more thorough probing, depending on context and tone.

Nuance and related terms: Compared to nachfragen (to inquire), nachhaken emphasizes following up on a prior response or statement. Nachbohren is a stronger, more aggressive synonym and may imply pressure. In formal writing, nachhaken is usually neutral or slightly assertive.

Translations: English equivalents include to follow up, to probe further, or to press for more information.

Examples: "Der Reporter hakte nach und fragte nach weiteren Belegen." "Wir müssen beim Lieferanten nachhaken, um den Termin zu bestätigen."

See also: Nachfragen, Nachforschung, Nachweis.