überfallen
attack · raid · rob
Jemanden plötzlich angreifen oder an einen Ort kommen und dort mit Gewalt Geld oder Sachen nehmen.
The German word "überfallen" is a verb that means "to ambush" or "to attack" (specifically in the context of robbery or assault). It is composed of the prefix "über" and the verb "fallen," where "fallen" means "to fall." The combination conveys the idea of overtaking someone suddenly and violently.
Similar words in German include "überrumpeln" (to surprise or catch off guard) and "rauben" (to rob).
Differences:
- Überfallen is specifically associated with attack or robbery, often implying violence.
- Überrumpeln typically emphasizes surprise rather than robbery.
- Rauben focuses solely on the act of theft without necessarily indicating a violent confrontation.
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Examples
Die Stadt wurde von Räubern überfallen.verb
The city was attacked by robbers.
Räuber haben die Bank überfallen.verb
Robbers have attacked the bank.
Ein Bär hat das Lager überfallen.verb
A bear raided the camp.
Ein unbekannter Täter hat die Bank überfallen.verb
An unknown perpetrator has robbed the bank.
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