fangen
Translation
to catch, to capture
Examples
Ich fange den Ball.
I catch the ball.
Die Katze fängt eine Maus.
The cat catches a mouse.
Er hat Feuer gefangen.
He caught fire (became enthusiastic).
Grammar Patterns
((sth./sb.)) to catch sth./sb. The police catch the thief.
Similar Words
Synonyms: ergreifen (to seize), packen (to grab); Antonyms: werfen (to throw), freilassen (to release)
Etymology
From Old High German 'fāhan' (to seize). Related to the English word 'fang'.
Memory Tips
Think of an animal's 'fangs' used to 'fangen' (catch) its prey.