vorbeiziehen
pass by
Definition & meaning
The verb vorbeiziehen has two primary meanings:
- To pass by / pass by something: This describes an object, person, or group moving past a stationary point or observer. It is often used for clouds, a parade, a procession, or a period of time.
- To overtake / pass: In a competitive context, it refers to moving faster than someone or something else to get ahead of them (e.g., in a race or while driving).
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a separable verb (trennbares Verb), meaning the prefix vorbei- detaches from the stem ziehen in many conjugated forms (e.g., "Die Wolken ziehen an uns vorbei"). It is categorized as a strong verb (irregular), with the principal parts being vorbeiziehen – zog vorbei – ist vorbeigezogen.
The word is composed of two parts:
- Vorbei: An adverb meaning "past" or "by."
- Ziehen: A verb meaning "to pull," "to move," or "to draw."
Together, the word literally describes the action of a movement that goes past a specific location.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- passieren: To happen or to physically pass by something.
- vorüberziehen: A near-identical synonym used for clouds, time, or processions.
- überholen: Specifically used when someone passes another person or vehicle to get in front.
- vorbeilaufen: To pass by while running or walking.
Antonyms:
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Examples
Die Wolken ziehen schnell vorbei.verb
The clouds are passing by quickly.
Am Morgen zog ein langer Zug laut an uns vorbei.verb
In the morning a long train passed by us loudly.
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