What does “Kräfte sammeln” mean in German?

“Kräfte sammeln” literally means “to gather strengths,” but in everyday use it just means to take a short rest and get your energy back. You hear it before a hard task, after a long stretch, or any time you pause to recover. Germans often add “kurz” (quickly/briefly) to signal it is just a brief stop — as the traveler does in this clip before his long train ride.

In the clip: “Also kurz Kräfte sammeln und dann ab in den RE920 nach Nürnberg.” — “So let’s quickly recharge, and then off to the RE920 to Nürnberg.” “Kräfte” is the plural of “Kraft” (strength/energy), and “sammeln” means to gather or collect — so you “collect your energy” again. More examples: “Ich muss erst mal Kräfte sammeln.” — “I need to recharge first.” “Vor der Prüfung wollte ich noch Kräfte sammeln.” — “Before the exam I wanted to gather some energy.” Usage note: It often comes with “kurz” (quickly/briefly) for a short pause, as in the clip. It is warm and everyday — fine in casual talk and gentle enough for a tired moment.