This is the 1651st most frequent Dutch word.
onderhouden
To maintain or support.
Here 'onderhouden' means 'to maintain' referring to keeping something in good condition.
Het is belangrijk om de machine goed te onderhouden.
It is important to maintain the machine properly.
In this sentence, 'onderhouden' is used in the context of 'maintaining' a conversational flow.
Hij weet echt hoe je een goed gesprek moet onderhouden.
He really knows how to maintain a good conversation.
'Onderhouden' here is used to signify 'upkeeping' in relation to taking care of the garden.