umwerfen
knock over · upset
Etwas oder jemanden so bewegen, dass es oder er fällt oder seine Lage verliert.
The German word "umwerfen" is a separable verb made of two parts:
- "um" (a prefix meaning "around" or "over")
- "werfen" (to throw)
Meaning:
"Umwerfen" means to knock over, to topple, or to throw down something. It can be used literally (e.g., knocking over a glass) or figuratively (e.g., being overwhelmed by something).
Similar words:
- "umstoßen" (to knock over, often used interchangeably)
- "niederwerfen" (to strike down, more forceful)
- "zu Boden werfen" (to throw to the ground)
Differences:
- "Umwerfen" usually emphasizes toppling or knocking something over.
- "Umstoßen" is very similar but can imply more casual or accidental knocking over.
- "Niederwerfen" and "zu Boden werfen" are stronger, implying force and often physical confrontation.
Make “umwerfen” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Der Wind kann die Mülltonnen umwerfen.verb
The wind can knock over the garbage bins.
Beim Spielen warfen die Kinder versehentlich den Korb um.verb
While playing, the children accidentally knocked the basket over.
Die Nachricht wird sicher alle Pläne umwerfen.verb
The news will surely upset all plans.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad