weiterführen

Weiterführen is a German verb meaning to continue, carry on, or resume something that has already been started. It is used in contexts such as projects, discussions, investigations, traditions, or policies, where a line of action is extended or sustained into the future. The sense often implies a deliberate continuation rather than a new start.

Etymology and form: The term combines weiter (further) with führen (to lead or conduct). Grammatically, weiterführen is a separable-prefix verb. In present tense main clauses, the prefix is separated: Wir führen das Projekt weiter. In other tenses you may see the separation reflected differently, for example Wir führten das Projekt weiter. The infinitive with zu is weiterzuführen, and the past participle is weitergeführt (as in Wir haben das Projekt weitergeführt).

Usage notes: Weiterführen is commonly used with concrete objects such as Projekte, Debatten, Untersuchungen, Gespräche, oder Traditionen. It can also convey extending a policy or plan. It contrasts with synonyms like fortsetzen, which is often more formal or neutral, and fortführen, which can carry a slightly more ritual or ongoing sense in some contexts. While similar to fortsetzen in meaning, weiterführen emphasizes the act of taking what exists and carrying it forward.

See also: Fortführung (the continuation or continuation project), Fortsetzen (to resume or continue), Weiterführung (noun form focusing on the act or result of continuing).