unter|kriegen
Translation
to get down, to subdue, to overcome
Examples
Lass dich nicht unterkriegen!
Don't let it get you down!
Die Krankheit hat ihn nicht untergekriegt.
The illness didn't get him down.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n)) unterkriegen to get (sb.) down The difficulties didn't get him down.
sich nicht unterkriegen lassen to not let oneself be gotten down She won't let the criticism get her down.
Similar Words
Synonyms: besiegen (to defeat), bezwingen (to overcome); Antonyms: aufgeben (to give up), nachgeben (to yield)
Etymology
From 'unter' (under, down) and 'kriegen' (to get). Literally 'to get someone under', implying to bring them under your control.
Memory Tips
Imagine physically getting someone 'under' you in a fight to 'subdue' them. The phrase 'Lass dich nicht unterkriegen!' is a very common encouragement.