ereilen
Translation
to befall, to overtake, to catch up with
Examples
Ihn ereilte ein tragisches Schicksal.
A tragic fate befell him.
Die Nachricht ereilte uns auf der Reise.
The news reached us during the trip.
Grammar Patterns
to befall ((sb./sth.)) Something befalls someone/something. A misfortune befell the family. Ein Unglück ereilte die Familie.
Similar Words
treffen, widerfahren, heimsuchen
Etymology
From 'er-' (a prefix indicating reaching a goal or result) and 'eilen' (to hurry). Something 'hurries to' you and catches you.
Memory Tips
Imagine fate or news 'eilen' (hurrying) towards you until it 'er-' (reaches) you. It often implies something inescapable.