erfassen
Translation
to grasp, to comprehend, to record, to capture
Examples
Er erfasst die Situation schnell.
He grasps the situation quickly.
Die Daten werden digital erfasst.
The data is captured digitally.
Ein Schauer erfasste ihn.
A shudder seized him.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to grasp/record sth. He has grasped the core of the problem.
Similar Words
Synonyms: begreifen, verstehen, registrieren; Antonyms: miss, overlook
Etymology
From the prefix 'er-' (often indicating completion or achievement) and 'fassen' (to grasp, to hold). It means to fully grasp something, either mentally (comprehend) or physically (capture).
Memory Tips
Think of 'er-' as 'thoroughly' and 'fassen' as 'grasping'. You are thoroughly grasping an idea or data.